Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

This Greek Orzo Salad Recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick lunch, this salad has you covered. With tender orzo, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese all harmoniously combined in a zesty red apple vinegar vinaigrette, it’s a dish that stands out. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of fresh vegetables and herbs ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side dish or make it the star of your meal by adding grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients, this salad is a great addition to any balanced diet.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this salad ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Greek Orzo Salad, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large serving bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking orzo pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Perfect for draining the orzo after cooking while keeping the pasta intact.
• Large serving bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps to blend the vinaigrette ingredients thoroughly for even coating on the salad.

Ingredients

Made with tender orzo, crunchy cucumbers and red onion, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives and salty feta cheese all tossed together in a red apple vinegar vinaigrette.

For the Salad

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 1 English cucumber (diced) (Persian cucumbers work too)
• 1/3 cup diced red onion
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 3 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley
• 1/3 cup chopped kalamata olives
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Vinaigrette

• 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then drain well. Transfer the orzo into a large serving bowl.

Step 2: Prepare Salad Ingredients

Add the following ingredients into the bowl with the cooled orzo:
* Diced cucumber
* Diced red onion
* Halved cherry tomatoes
* Chopped parsley
* Chopped kalamata olives
* Crumbled feta cheese

Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
1. Extra virgin olive oil
2. Red apple vinegar
3. Honey
4. Dijon mustard
5. Garlic powder
6. Dried oregano
7. Kosher salt and pepper

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with dressing.

Step 5: Serve or Store

Taste for seasoning adjustments. Serve immediately or cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy your fresh Greek Orzo Salad!

How to Serve Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

Greek Orzo Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a side dish, or a main course, the options are plentiful.

As a Main Dish

• Enjoy the salad on its own for a fulfilling meal. The combination of protein from feta and fiber from vegetables makes it satisfying.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled meats or seafood. The fresh flavors of the salad complement the richness of grilled dishes perfectly.

For Meal Prep

• Pack portions in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches. The flavors deepen as it sits in the fridge, making it even tastier the next day.

At Gatherings

• Serve in a large bowl for family-style dining. Guests can help themselves, making it a great addition to potlucks or barbecues.

How to Perfect Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

To elevate your Greek Orzo Salad, consider these helpful tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Cook orzo al dente: This ensures the pasta maintains its shape and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with other ingredients.
• Use fresh veggies: Fresh cucumbers and tomatoes enhance the crunch and flavor of your salad.
• Let it marinate: Allowing the salad to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste before serving; feel free to add more salt, pepper, or vinegar according to your preference.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or mint can add a unique twist to your Greek Orzo Salad.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

Greek Orzo Salad pairs well with several side dishes that enhance its vibrant flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and smokiness that complements the salad.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide caramelization that balances the freshness of the salad.
3. Hummus and Pita Chips: A creamy dip served with crunchy pita chips makes for an excellent appetizer alongside your salad.
4. Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce adds a refreshing element that matches well with Mediterranean flavors.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These savory bites offer a delightful addition that echoes the Greek theme of your meal.
6. Fried Calamari: Crispy calamari brings texture and flavor intensity, creating a nice contrast to the soft orzo salad.
7. Greek Yogurt with Honey: For dessert, this light option offers sweetness without being heavy after a hearty meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Greek Orzo Salad Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the orzo: Cooking the orzo too long will make it mushy. Aim for al dente texture by following package instructions closely.
• Skipping the rinsing step: Not rinsing the orzo after cooking can lead to clumping. Rinse it under cold water to prevent sticking and cool it down.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can dull flavors. Taste your salad before serving and adjust with salt, pepper, or additional vinaigrette as needed.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Compromising on ingredients, like olives or feta, can affect taste. Choose high-quality, fresh components for the best results.
• Not chilling before serving: Serving immediately may not allow flavors to meld. Allow your salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Greek Orzo Salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• If possible, keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the texture of ingredients.
• However, if you need to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container.
• Consume within 1 month for optimal taste and quality.

Reheating Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salad in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warm, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a little olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Stir in the orzo salad and heat thoroughly while mixing consistently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Greek Orzo Salad Recipe?

A Greek Orzo Salad Recipe features tender orzo pasta mixed with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese, all drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette.

Can I customize my Greek Orzo Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or replace feta with vegan cheese based on dietary preferences.

How long does Greek Orzo Salad last in the fridge?

Your Greek Orzo Salad can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep! Just store it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Greek Orzo Salad Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it perfect as a side dish or main course. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Try this refreshing salad today—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing flavors of this Greek Orzo Salad, a perfect dish for any occasion. Featuring tender orzo pasta tossed with crunchy cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, salty feta cheese, and kalamata olives, this salad is drizzled with a zesty red apple vinegar vinaigrette that ties everything together. Ideal for summer barbecues, quick lunches, or as a meal prep staple, this versatile salad is not only easy to make but also packed with nutritious ingredients. With just 30 minutes of preparation time, you’ll have a vibrant and delicious dish that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 1 English cucumber (diced)
• 1/3 cup diced red onion
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 3 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley
• 1/3 cup chopped kalamata olives
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente; rinse under cold water and drain.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled orzo, diced cucumber, red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, parsley, olives, and feta cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red apple vinegar, honey, dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
5. Taste for seasoning adjustments; serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: About 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg