Orzo Salad with Artichokes, Tomatoes, Chickpeas, Feta & Lemon Basil Dressing
User Reviews
5
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Servings
6 -8 servings
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Course
Main Course, Salad
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Cuisine
Vegetarian
Orzo Salad with Artichokes, Tomatoes, Chickpeas, Feta & Lemon Basil Dressing
Description
Orzo Salad with Artichokes, Tomatoes, Chickpeas, Feta & Lemon Basil Dressing brings together orzo cooked in vegetable broth and cooled down, mixed with hearty chickpeas, chopped artichokes, fresh tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. The fresh basil dressing, blended with garlic, kosher salt, lemon juice, and olive oil, adds a tangy, herbal note. The salad is stirred to combine and can be served immediately or chilled, allowing the flavors to meld.
The mix of ingredients gives a range of textures: the orzo remains tender yet firm, chickpeas add a bit of bite, the artichokes and tomatoes offer freshness, and the feta contributes creaminess and salty depth. The lemon basil dressing ties the salad with a bright acidity and herbaceous flavor.
This salad works well as a light main or a side, suitable for warm weather meals or potlucks. It holds up well chilled and can be prepared ahead for convenience.
Ingredients
- 4 cups vegetable broth you can use water
- 1 1/2 cups orzo
- 1 chickpeas 15-ounce can, drained and rinsed, aka garbanzo beans
- 1 cup artichoke heart chopped
- 1 cup tomato chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- For the Lemon Basil Dressing:
- 3/4 cup basil packed, leaves
- 2 cloves garlic smashed
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice fresh
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
- 1. Pour the broth into a heavy large saucepan. Cover the pan and bring the broth to a boil over high heat. Stir in the orzo. Cook until the orzo is tender but still firm to the bite, stirring frequently, about 7 minutes. Drain the orzo through a strainer and rinse with cold water. Drain completely and transfer the orzo to a large bowl.
- 2. Add the chickpeas, artichokes, tomatoes, and feta cheese to the orzo. Stir until combined. Season with salt and pepper.
- 3. To make the dressing: in a blender or food processor, blend the basil, garlic, salt, and lemon juice until smooth. With the motor running, slowly add the oil. Blend until combined.
- 4. Pour dressing over orzo salad and stir until well combined. Serve salad immediately or chilled.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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