This Easy Orzo Salad is a bright and tasty dish packed with healthy veggies and feta cheese. Perfect for quick meals, it’s refreshing and makes a great side or main dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a small pasta that looks like rice. If you can’t find orzo, try using couscous or quinoa for a gluten-free option. Both give a similar texture!
Chickpeas: These provide protein and make the salad hearty. If you’re not a fan, feel free to swap with black beans or even diced cooked chicken for extra protein.
Tortilla Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. If they’re out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes; just drain them well.
Fresh Herbs: I prefer parsley for a fresh taste, but basil really shines in summer dishes. If you don’t have these, any mixed dried herbs can work in a pinch!
How Do You Ensure the Perfectly Cooked Orzo?
Cooking orzo sounds simple, but it can be easy to over or undercook it. Follow these steps:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil before adding the orzo. It enhances flavor!
- Cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it!
- Once cooked, drain and rinse quickly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
This way, the orzo maintains a nice bite that won’t mush up in your salad!
Easy Orzo Salad Recipe for Quick Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved (a mix of colors if possible)
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- 1 lemon, juice and a few thin slices for garnish
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and is best if chilled for at least 30 minutes before serving. So, you can have it ready in under an hour! Perfect for a quick meal anytime.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s ready, drain it and rinse under cold water. This helps stop the cooking process and cools the pasta down, making it perfect for a salad!
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked orzo, chickpeas, halved tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, and green onions. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the goodness!
3. Add Fresh Herbs:
Next, add the chopped parsley or basil to the bowl. These fresh herbs will enhance the flavor of your salad, making it even more delicious!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. This simple dressing ties all the flavors together beautifully!
5. Mix and Taste:
Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss gently until everything is nicely coated. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a little more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your salad with fresh lemon slices and any extra herbs you love. You can serve it right away, or for the best flavor, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy this refreshing and nutritious orzo salad for meals, picnics, or as a delicious side dish.
FAQ for Easy Orzo Salad Recipe
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great substitute and adds a nutty flavor along with more fiber. Just be sure to cook it for a little longer as it may require extra time compared to regular orzo.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad seems a bit dry after storing, you can refresh it with a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of lemon juice when serving.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach. Just make sure they are chopped small enough to mix well with the orzo!
Is This Salad Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes! This orzo salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and portion it out for quick lunches throughout the week. Just be sure to store the dressing separately until you’re ready to eat to keep everything fresh!
