This Mediterranean feta orzo pasta salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for warm weather or as a side for gatherings. Packed with colorful vegetables, feta cheese, and a light dressing, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
The recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or a picnic. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Vibrant Ingredients for a Fresh Salad
The Mediterranean feta orzo pasta salad is a celebration of fresh, colorful ingredients.
With tender orzo pasta as the base, this dish incorporates juicy cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, creating a delightful contrast in textures.
The addition of crumbled feta cheese adds a creamy element that perfectly complements the other flavors.
Each bite is a burst of freshness, making it an ideal choice for warm weather gatherings or as a light meal.
The vibrant colors of the ingredients not only make the salad visually appealing but also indicate the nutritional benefits packed within.
Simple Preparation Steps
Preparing this salad is straightforward and quick, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Begin by cooking the orzo pasta until it reaches the perfect al dente texture.
While the pasta cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion, ensuring each piece is bite-sized for easy eating.
Once the orzo is ready, rinse it under cold water to cool it down.
Then, mix the cooked pasta with the chopped vegetables and crumbled feta in a large bowl.
A light lemon vinaigrette, made with olive oil, lemon juice, and dried oregano, ties everything together beautifully.
Customizing Your Salad
This salad is versatile, allowing for various customizations based on personal preferences.
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or olives for extra flavor.
For those looking to increase protein content, grilled chicken or chickpeas can be excellent additions.
Experimenting with different herbs, such as basil or mint, can also enhance the Mediterranean flair of the dish.
The possibilities are endless, making it easy to adapt the salad to suit any occasion or taste.
Serving Suggestions
Once assembled, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.
This resting period allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a more harmonious taste.
Serve it cold or at room temperature, making it a perfect dish for picnics or potlucks.
Pair it with grilled meats or serve it as a standalone dish for a light lunch.
The salad’s refreshing qualities make it a delightful addition to any meal.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
This Mediterranean salad not only pleases the palate but also offers numerous health benefits.
The cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, while cucumbers provide hydration and essential vitamins.
Feta cheese, although higher in fat, is a good source of protein and calcium, contributing to a balanced diet.
With a light dressing made from olive oil and lemon juice, this salad is heart-healthy and low in calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Enjoying this dish regularly can be a tasty way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals.
A Perfect Addition to Any Table
The rustic wooden table setting enhances the fresh and inviting feel of the Mediterranean feta orzo pasta salad.
Its vibrant colors and appealing presentation make it a standout dish at any gathering.
Whether served at a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this salad is sure to impress guests and family alike.
With its combination of flavors, textures, and health benefits, this salad is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience.
Bring a touch of the Mediterranean to your table with this refreshing and colorful dish.
Easy Feta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe
This pasta salad features tender orzo pasta combined with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. The recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the orzo is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, chopped vegetables, feta cheese, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
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