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A colorful summer orzo salad with fresh vegetables and herbs in a bowl.

Proven way to grow 3-Star Orzo Salad (Summer)

This refreshing Orzo Salad is perfect for summer gatherings, featuring a delightful mix of pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing. It's a crowd-pleaser that's easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup Orzo pasta
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes halved
  • 0.5 Cucumber diced
  • 0.25 Red onion thinly sliced
  • 0.5 cup Feta cheese crumbled
  • 0.25 cup Fresh mint chopped
  • 0.25 cup Kalamata olives pitted and halved
Dressing
  • 0.25 cup Olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tbsp Red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove Garlic minced
  • 0.5 tsp Salt
  • 0.25 tsp Black pepper ground

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh mint, and halved Kalamata olives.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Assembly
  1. Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
  2. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your preference.
Serving
  1. Serve the orzo salad immediately or chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then serve cold for the best experience.

Notes

For an extra boost of flavor, toast the orzo lightly in a dry pan before cooking. You can also add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.