Homemade Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Enjoy a burst of Mediterranean flavors with this delightful Homemade Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes. Packed with fresh ingredients and vibrant colors, this salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds! Whether you’re planning a picnic, a potluck, or just a simple family dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Why Make This Recipe
This orzo pasta salad is the perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and zesty flavors, making it a fantastic dish for any occasion. The chewy orzo pasta combines beautifully with salty feta and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creating a salad that is both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can serve it as a side dish, a light lunch, or even a main course. With minimal cooking and a quick assembly, you can whip it up in no time!
How to Make Homemade Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Making your own Orzo Pasta Salad at home is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step process to create this delicious dish!
Ingredients
- 2 qt water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 lb orzo
- 1/2 lb kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 12 oz sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and diced
- 1 cup spinach, sliced thin
- 3 tbsp fresh basil, thinly cut
- 3 tbsp fresh mint, thin strips
- 1/2 tsp black pepper, ground
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Zest from 1 lemon, grated
- 1/3 lb feta cheese, crumbled
Directions
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Boil the Water: In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
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Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
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Drain and Rinse: Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
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Mix the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the orzo, chopped kalamata olives, red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, basil, and mint.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the black pepper, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest.
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Combine: Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
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Add Feta: Crumble the feta cheese over the top and give it another gentle toss, ensuring the cheese is well distributed without breaking it too much.
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Chill: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serve: Enjoy chilled or at room temperature. Serve it as a refreshing side or as a light meal on its own.
Pro Tips for Success with Orzo Pasta Salad
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Choose Quality Ingredients: Since the salad relies on a few key components, using high-quality feta cheese and fresh herbs can elevate the overall flavor.
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Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrition.
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Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Ensure your orzo is al dente for the best texture in the salad. It should have a slight bite even after it cools.
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Make-ahead Friendly: Prepare the salad a few hours or even the night before. The flavors will deepen as it sits in the fridge.
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Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh herbs whenever possible. Dried herbs won’t provide the same vibrant flavor.
Flavor Variations for Orzo Pasta Salad
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Mediterranean Twist: Add chopped artichokes, roasted red peppers, or capers to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
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Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein, perfect for transforming this salad into a main dish.
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Nutty Addition: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat if you enjoy spicy food.
Serving Suggestions for Orzo Pasta Salad
This versatile orzo salad can be served in many ways! It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, wraps, or as part of a buffet spread at gatherings. For a more complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also works well as a light lunch on its own or as a side dish at summer barbecues. Don’t forget to add a slice of fresh lemon on the side for an added burst of flavor!
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Orzo Pasta Salad
To store leftover orzo pasta salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you prefer to pack it for lunch, separate the salad from any additional dressing until you’re ready to eat to prevent it from becoming soggy.
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the texture of the orzo and the fresh veggies. However, if you have leftover components like cooked orzo, consider using them in soups or casseroles later.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|———–|—————|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 9g |
| Carbs | 45g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
FAQ About Homemade Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo gives the salad a unique texture, you can substitute it with any small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The other ingredients in the salad provide plenty of flavors and textures, ensuring it remains delicious.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this orzo pasta salad is ideal for meal prep! It stores well in the refrigerator for a few days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy side dishes throughout the week.
Can I use store-bought sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, store-bought sun-dried tomatoes work perfectly in this recipe! You can find them either packed in oil or dried. If using dried tomatoes, soak them in hot water for about 30 minutes to soften before adding them to the salad.
How spicy is this recipe, and can I adjust the spice level?
This orzo salad is not inherently spicy. However, you can easily adjust the spice level by adding red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños according to your taste preference. Start with a small amount and taste as you go!
Final Thoughts
Homemade Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a delightful dish that celebrates fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether it’s for a picnic, barbecue, or a simple weekday meal, this easy-to-make salad is sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy it as is or customize it to suit your preferences. The possibilities are endless! Give this recipe a try and relish the satisfaction that comes from creating a colorful, nutritious dish that everyone will love.
Print
Homemade Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing Mediterranean orzo pasta salad tossed with feta and sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 qt water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 lb orzo
- 1/2 lb kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 12 oz sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and diced
- 1 cup spinach, sliced thin
- 3 tbsp fresh basil, thinly cut
- 3 tbsp fresh mint, thin strips
- 1/2 tsp black pepper, ground
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Zest from 1 lemon, grated
- 1/3 lb feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Add the orzo to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the orzo, chopped kalamata olives, red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, basil, and mint.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the black pepper, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Crumble the feta cheese over the top and give it another gentle toss.
- Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For optimal flavor, use high-quality feta and fresh herbs. Customize vegetables as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean