This bright orzo salad is a perfect mix of tender pasta, crunchy veggies, and fresh herbs. It’s light, refreshing, and oh-so-easy to whip up for any meal!
If you’re like me, you might find yourself digging in before it even makes it to the table! 😄 Pair it with grilled chicken for a yummy picnic or a side dish at dinner.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: The star of this dish, orzo’s shape resembles rice. If you don’t have orzo, try using other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Chickpeas: These are great for adding protein. You could swap them for black beans or cannellini beans if desired. Canned options are quick and easy, but cooked dried beans work, too!
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add a fresh pop. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, you can use diced regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
Feta Cheese: This adds a salty tang. For a non-dairy option, try crumbled tofu marinated in a bit of salt and lemon juice, or omit it for a lighter salad.
Fresh Herbs: Mint and basil enhance the freshness of the salad. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried versions can work. Use about a tablespoon of each, but be mindful of their strong flavor!
How Do You Make Sure Your Orzo is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking orzo well is key since overcooking can make it mushy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by boiling 2 cups of water in a medium pot. Remember, salt can enhance the flavor while cooking.
- Add the orzo and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Follow the package instructions for timing, usually 8-10 minutes for al dente.
- To check doneness, taste a piece before draining. If it’s firm yet tender, you’re set!
- As soon as it’s done, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it off for the salad.
This technique helps maintain the orzo’s shape and texture, giving your salad a wonderful bite. Enjoy your cooking journey!
How to Make Orzo Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups water
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Orzo Salad will take you about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes if you choose to refrigerate it for the flavors to blend together. It’s a quick, fresh, and tasty dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or a side at dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This helps stop the cooking process and keeps your pasta firm and delicious!
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with the chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, black olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Give it a good stir so that all the ingredients are mixed well.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple dressing will add a lovely flavor to your salad.
4. Combine everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently so that everything gets coated. Be careful not to mash the feta cheese while stirring!
5. Add Fresh Herbs:
Now, sprinkle in the chopped mint and basil leaves and give it another gentle toss to mix them in. These fresh herbs will really brighten up the salad!
6. Serve or Chill:
Finally, taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can serve it right away, or let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors even more. Enjoy your refreshing Orzo Salad!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great substitute and adds a bit more fiber to your salad. Just keep in mind that it might have a slightly nuttier flavor and may cook for a minute or two longer, so check the package instructions for best results.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this orzo salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative. Alternatively, you could use avocados for creaminess and extra flavor! The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, so it’s an easy switch.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, this salad is perfect for preparing in advance! You can make it up to 24 hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the orzo from getting soggy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry after storage, simply add a splash of olive oil or a bit of vinegar to refresh the flavors before serving again.
