Italian Orzo Salad is a bright and colorful pasta salad that brings together tender orzo, crisp veggies, tangy feta cheese, and fresh basil. Tossed in zesty Italian dressing, it’s a dish that’s not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re planning a picnic or want a refreshing dish for summer, this salad is your go-to recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Italian Orzo Salad
This Italian Orzo Salad is a true delight for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Second, this salad is loaded with healthy ingredients, including fresh vegetables like cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, making it a nutritious option for any meal. Third, with the inclusion of feta cheese, it adds a creamy texture and a burst of flavor. The vibrant colors of the salad not only make it visually appealing but also tantalize your taste buds. Furthermore, the Mediterranean orzo salad recipe is versatile; you can customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Lastly, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a vegetarian meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Ingredients for Italian Orzo Salad
Gather these items:
- 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup kalamata olives, sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ½ cup Italian dressing
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Italian Orzo Salad Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo for 8-9 minutes until it’s tender but still firm.
- Step 2: Drain the cooked orzo in a colander and rinse it really well under cold water to stop the cooking process completely and cool it.
- Step 3: Put the cooled orzo in a large mixing bowl and set it aside while you prepare the fresh vegetables.
- Step 4: Dice the cucumber, cut the cherry tomatoes in half, chop the red onion finely, and slice the kalamata olives.
- Step 5: Break the feta cheese into small pieces and cut the fresh basil leaves into thin ribbons.
- Step 6: Add all the veggies, olives, feta cheese, and fresh basil to the bowl with the cooled orzo pasta and mix them together.
- Step 7: Pour the Italian dressing over everything and toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Step 8: Add salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
- Step 9: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Step 10: Give the salad one more toss before serving. Add extra dressing if needed for moisture.
Pro Tips for the Best Italian Orzo Salad
Keep these in mind:
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- For a twist, try adding chickpeas for extra protein.
- Feel free to substitute with your favorite veggies or even add grilled chicken for a non-vegetarian option.
- Experiment with different dressings like a homemade lemon vinaigrette for a fresh taste.
Best Ways to Serve Italian Orzo Salad
This salad is perfect on its own, but here are some serving ideas:
1. Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish.
2. Pair it with crusty bread for a light lunch.
3. Make it a main dish by adding protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
How to Store and Reheat Italian Orzo Salad
To keep your Italian Orzo Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last up to 3 days, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep. The flavors actually improve after a day in the fridge! Just give it a good toss before serving and add a bit of dressing if it seems dry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Orzo Salad
What is orzo salad?
Orzo salad is a refreshing dish made with orzo pasta and various vegetables, often dressed with vinaigrette. It’s a versatile recipe, great for summer gatherings.
Can I make Italian Orzo Salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. It’s a great option for meal prep and tastes even better after the flavors meld together.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian Orzo Salad?
To avoid mushy orzo, be careful not to overcook it. Rinsing it under cold water after cooking helps stop the cooking process and keeps the orzo firm.
Variations of Italian Orzo Salad You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with these variations:
1. Add roasted vegetables for a smoky flavor.
2. Incorporate spinach and chickpeas for a healthy twist.
3. Use different cheese like mozzarella or add nuts for crunch.
These variations keep the dish exciting while maintaining its Italian roots!
For more delicious recipes, check out our salad category or try making spaghetti with garlic and oil for a quick meal!
Print
Delicious Italian Orzo Salad: 10 Simple Steps
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A bright and colorful pasta salad with tender orzo, crisp veggies, tangy feta cheese, and fresh basil tossed in zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup kalamata olives, sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ½ cup Italian dressing
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo for 8-9 minutes until it’s tender but still firm.
- Drain the cooked orzo in a colander and rinse it really well under cold water to stop the cooking process completely and cool it.
- Put the cooled orzo in a large mixing bowl and set it aside while you get the fresh vegetables ready to go.
- Dice the cucumber, cut the cherry tomatoes in half, chop the red onion finely, and slice the kalamata olives on your cutting board.
- Break the feta cheese into small pieces and cut the fresh basil leaves into thin ribbons that look pretty and delicate.
- Add all the veggies, olives, feta cheese, and fresh basil to the bowl with the cooled orzo pasta and mix them together.
- Pour the Italian dressing over everything and toss gently until all the ingredients are coated evenly and look delicious.
- Add salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting how much you use based on what tastes good to you personally.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and put the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before eating to blend flavors.
- Give the salad one more toss before serving, adding extra dressing if it needs moisture for better flavor.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 285 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
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