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–+ servings

Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Elaine Gordon
When I think of Mediterranean orzo salad, it brings to mind sunlit picnics and vibrant gatherings.
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Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Salad
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 12
Calories 126 kcal

Equipment

  • Bowls

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz. orzo pasta cooked, drained, and cooled
  • 1 cup cooked chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 small red onion finely diced
  • 1 cup halved yellow grape or cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup pitted kalamata olives sliced in half
  • 1/4 cup roasted red bell pepper diced (optional, for added sweetness and color)
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese optional, plus extra for serving
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 medium lemon
  • 1 garlic clove finely minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley plus extra for garnish
  • 1 tsp dried oregano optional, for a Mediterranean flavor boost

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

  • Start by cooking the orzo according to package instructions. Make sure to salt the water for extra flavor. Once it’s al dente, drain it and rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Chickpeas

  • While the pasta cooks, rinse and drain the chickpeas. Chop your veggies — bell peppers, onion, and tomatoes. Everything should be bite-sized for easy eating.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. This zesty dressing brings everything together.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, mix the cooled orzo, chickpeas, veggies, and feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss everything so each ingredient is coated in that delightful mixture.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

  • Transfer your salad to a serving dish. Sprinkle some extra parsley and feta on top for presentation. Voilà! You have a delightful Mediterranean orzo salad ready to impress.

Notes

Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on the pasta. You want it firm, not mushy.
Use Good Olive Oil: Since olive oil is a star ingredient, choose high quality. It can make a big difference in taste.
Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This time helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add or swap in your favorite vegetables. Spinach, cucumber, or roasted zucchini work well too!
Add Some Crunch: For extra texture, consider adding pine nuts or sunflower seeds.

Nutrition

Calories: 126kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 4gFat: 6.4gSaturated Fat: 2.4gCholesterol: 13mgSodium: 238mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 6IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 6mg
Keyword Mediterranean Orzo Salad
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