Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta

This Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta is a vibrant dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, attending a picnic, or looking for a quick lunch, this salad is versatile and satisfying. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and tossed in a zesty vinaigrette, making it a delightful addition to your meal rotation. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also looks stunning on the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, allowing you to whip up a delicious dish without the fuss.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh veggies and tangy feta creates a medley of flavors that will excite your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or main dish; it’s perfect for any occasion from casual lunches to festive gatherings.
• Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance for stress-free entertaining—just chill and serve!
• Healthy Ingredients: This salad is loaded with fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, aligning perfectly with a healthy diet.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious orzo pasta salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or jar (for dressing)
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Prevents the orzo from sticking while sautéing, ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.
• Whisk or jar: Essential for mixing the dressing thoroughly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta, gather the following ingredients:

For the Orzo Salad

• 16 oz. uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 4 1/4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp EACH salt, pepper
• 1/2 red onion (chopped)
• 2 ears grilled corn, cut off the cob (grilling optional but recommended)
• 1 English cucumber (sliced and quartered)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 15 oz. can garbanzo beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives (halved)
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup fresh basil (chopped)
• 1/2 cup feta

For the Dressing

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 TBS EACH fresh dill parsley, oregano (OR 1 tsp EACH dried)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp EACH pepper, salt

How to Make Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine all dressing ingredients. Whisk or shake until well blended. Refrigerate until you’re ready to use it.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

In a large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat:
Melt the butter with olive oil.
Once melted, increase heat to medium-high.
Add orzo and chopped red onions; sauté for about 3–5 minutes until onions soften.

Step 3: Simmer the Orzo

Add chicken broth, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet:
Simmer until orzo is al dente (about 8–10 minutes).
Stir frequently during the last couple of minutes.
If there’s leftover liquid after cooking, drain the orzo.

Transfer cooked orzo to a large bowl and let it cool in the refrigerator while you chop your veggies.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once cooled:
Add all prepared salad ingredients to the bowl with orzo.
Pour in the dressing.
Toss everything together until well coated.

Step 5: Final Touches

Taste your salad:
Adjust seasoning with additional lemon juice or salt and pepper if needed.
Serve chilled!

Enjoy this refreshing Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta, perfect for any gathering!

How to Serve Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta

This Orzo Pasta Salad recipe with feta is versatile and can complement various meals. Whether you serve it at a gathering or enjoy it as a light meal, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken for a refreshing contrast that highlights the flavors of both dishes.
• Serve alongside a rich, hearty stew to balance the meal with its lightness and crunch.

As a Picnic Delight

• Pack this salad in a portable container for your next picnic. Its robust ingredients hold up well, making it perfect for outdoor dining.
• Accompany with crusty bread and fresh fruit for a delightful spread.

As a Light Lunch

• Enjoy it alone or add some protein like shrimp or chickpeas to make it more filling.
• Pair with a chilled beverage, such as iced tea or lemonade, for a refreshing lunch.

At Potlucks and Parties

• Bring this dish to gatherings; it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
• Consider serving it in individual cups for easy self-serving at events.

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How to Perfect Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta

To ensure your Orzo Pasta Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Cook orzo al dente: This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and retains its texture in the salad.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor and color of the salad.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill allows the flavors to meld beautifully together.
• Adjust dressing to taste: Feel free to modify the dressing ingredients according to your preference for acidity and seasoning.
• Add protein for heartiness: Incorporate grilled chicken or chickpeas if you want a more filling dish.
• Experiment with herbs: Try different herbs like mint or parsley to add unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta

This vibrant Orzo Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add depth and smoky flavor.
2. Hummus Platter: A variety of hummus served with pita bread and fresh veggies makes for a healthy pairing.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned simply can complement the salad’s freshness without overpowering it.
4. Greek Yogurt Dip: A creamy dip made from yogurt, garlic, and dill provides a refreshing contrast.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These traditional Mediterranean bites offer an exciting flavor combination that aligns well with the salad’s profile.
6. Simple Green Salad: A basic green salad dressed lightly allows the orzo dish to shine while still providing crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an orzo pasta salad can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring the dressing: Not properly balancing the ingredients in your dressing can lead to a bland salad. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before mixing it into the salad.

• Overcooking orzo: Cooking orzo too long will make it mushy. Aim for al dente by following package instructions carefully and tasting as you go.

• Not letting it cool: Adding warm orzo to your salad can wilt fresh ingredients. Allow the pasta to cool completely before mixing in other components.

• Skipping seasonal vegetables: Using out-of-season veggies can diminish flavor. Opt for fresh, seasonal produce for a vibrant and tasty salad.

• Forgetting to season each layer: If you skip seasoning while adding ingredients, the flavors won’t blend well. Season each component as you go for a more flavorful dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it’s fully cooled before refrigerating.

Freezing Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Consider leaving out fresh herbs and feta if freezing, as they don’t thaw well.

Reheating Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a skillet and heat over low, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish that may help enhance your cooking experience.

What is an Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta?

An orzo pasta salad recipe with feta is a refreshing dish made with cooked orzo pasta, vegetables, olives, and feta cheese dressed in a tangy vinaigrette.

How can I customize my Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta?

You can add different vegetables such as spinach or roasted red peppers. Try substituting feta with goat cheese or adding proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegan-friendly version of this orzo pasta salad recipe with feta.

How long does Orzo Pasta Salad last in the fridge?

Your orzo pasta salad will last around 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

This Orzo Pasta Salad recipe with feta is not only versatile but also packed with flavor and nutrients. It makes an excellent side dish for any meal but can also stand alone as a light lunch or dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite seasonal veggies or proteins to make it your own!