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Quick Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad

Quick Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad Perfect for Any Gathering

Quick Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that combines orzo, fresh vegetables, and tangy feta, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup orzo substitute with whole wheat or tri-color orzo if desired
  • 2 cups tomatoes diced into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 cup cucumbers diced into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup olives black or green, based on preference
  • 1 cup feta cheese or non-dairy alternatives for vegan option
  • 1 bunch fresh dill can substitute with parsley
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup olive oil extra virgin recommended
  • 1 large lemon freshly squeezed juice
  • 1 teaspoon oregano dried or fresh
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or fresh minced garlic
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by washing and dicing the tomatoes and cucumbers into 1/2-inch pieces. Finely dice the red onion into 1/4-inch pieces. Measure out the olives, feta cheese, and fresh dill, along with the dressing ingredients.
  2. In a large pot, bring 4-6 cups of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Let the dressing sit to meld flavors.
  4. Rinse the drained orzo under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent stickiness. Drain again to remove excess water.
  5. In a mixing bowl, toss the cooled orzo with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and dill. Pour the dressing over and toss gently until coated.
  6. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad can be prepared a day in advance, just add the feta before serving for optimal freshness. Optional add-ins include chickpeas or toasted nuts for added texture.

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