Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious side dish or light meal? Then look no further! This Orzo Pasta Salad, inspired by the queen of effortless elegance herself, Ina Garten, is the perfect solution. It's bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors, making it ideal for summer barbecues, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner. This recipe is a testament to how simple, healthy meals can be both satisfying and stunning. Get ready to elevate your pasta salad game!
Ingredients:
This recipe easily serves 4-6 people and can be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings.
- 1 pound orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get started:
- Cook the orzo according to package directions. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming sticky. Set aside to cool completely.
Making the salad:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper. This simple vinaigrette is the heart of the flavor.
- Add the cooled orzo to the bowl and toss gently to coat evenly with the dressing.
- Stir in the feta cheese, red onion, Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and dill.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a bit more lemon juice or salt depending on your preference.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture, or chill for later. The flavors actually meld beautifully if you let it sit for a little while in the fridge.
- Garnish with extra feta cheese, herbs, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- This pasta salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables. It's equally delicious on its own as a light lunch or a complete meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Orzo Pasta Salad:
- Don't overcook the orzo: Follow the package directions carefully, and rinse it under cold water immediately after draining. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste. Look for fresh, flavorful herbs, good quality olive oil, and a nice, salty feta cheese.
- Make it ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld. It's perfect for meal prepping!
- Customize it: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts. You can also add different cheeses, like goat cheese or ricotta salata.
Variations:
- Spicy Orzo Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the vinaigrette for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Orzo Salad: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can make it vegan by omitting the feta cheese or substituting it with a vegan feta alternative.
- Lemon Herb Orzo Salad: Increase the amount of lemon zest and herbs to enhance the fresh citrus and herb flavors.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This delicious Orzo Pasta Salad is a versatile and healthy dish perfect for any occasion. It’s a simple recipe that yields impressive results, proving that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. Enjoy!