Greek Orzo Salad Recipe
User Reviews
5
Greek Orzo Salad Recipe
Description
The salad starts by cooking orzo pasta until just al dente then rinsing it under cold water to cool. The dressing is made mixing red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, and kosher salt to create a bright, herbaceous, lightly acidic base.
The cooked pasta is combined with kalamata olives and their brine, diced red onion, English cucumber, halved grape tomatoes, and diced orange bell pepper. The olive brine and onion add sharpness, while the cucumber and bell pepper contribute crunch and freshness. Feta cheese cubes are stirred in last before serving to retain shape and creaminess.
This salad offers a pleasing blend of textures and vibrant flavors typical of Greek-style dishes. The orzo acts as a tender grain substitute, making it filling but not heavy. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be served vegetarian as a bright side dish to meals.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice fresh
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp oregano dried
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 16 oz orzo pasta (wheat or gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives plus 2 tablespoons brine, halved and pitted
- 1/3 cup red onion (diced small)
- 3 cups English cucumber diced small, from 1 large
- 1 pint grape tomatoes (halved)
- 1 bell pepper diced, orange
- 1/2 cup feta cheese (cubed)
- oregano optional garnish, fresh
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions for al dente, adding an extra minute.
- Drain and rinse under cold water, drain.
- Meanwhile, In a large bowl, combine the dressing ingredients. Add the olives, red onion and brine from the olives and mix to combine.
- Stir in the pasta with the cucumber, tomatoes and bell pepper and toss well. Taste for salt and adjust as needed.
- Add the cheese just before ready to serve.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 16servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 173 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 3/4 cup | |
| Calories | 173kcal | 9% |
| Carbohydrates | 24g | 8% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Fat | 6g | 9% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 4mg | 1% |
| Sodium | 112mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 1.5g | 6% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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