Are you dreaming of light, bright, and flavorful summer meals? This orzo pasta salad, inspired by the culinary queen Ina Garten herself, is the perfect answer! It's a vibrant dish bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a potluck contribution, or a delightful summer lunch. Forget complicated recipes; this one is surprisingly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a healthy meal, packed with goodness and ready in under 30 minutes – the epitome of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas!
Ingredients: A Symphony of Mediterranean Flavors
This recipe easily adapts to what you have on hand, making it incredibly versatile. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your preferences and the number of servings.
- 1 pound orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions: Your Culinary Journey Begins
Follow these simple steps to create this delicious and healthy meal:
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Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool slightly.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. This simple yet flavorful dressing is the heart of this dish.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked orzo, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the salad. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately or chill for later. This salad tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld in the refrigerator!
Cooking Tips for Perfection
- Don't overcook the orzo: Al dente orzo is key to a great salad. Overcooked orzo will become mushy.
- Use high-quality olive oil: The flavor of the olive oil significantly impacts the taste of the salad.
- Adjust the acidity: If you prefer a less tangy salad, reduce the amount of red wine vinegar and lemon juice.
- Add protein: For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Variations: Explore the Possibilities
This recipe is a fantastic base for endless variations. Try adding:
- Roasted red peppers
- Artichoke hearts
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or halloumi
- Fresh herbs like dill or mint
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
This Orzo Pasta Salad is a wonderful example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a quick and delicious option, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. It’s a true testament to how delicious and healthy meals can be!