Dive into the delightful world of Mediterranean flavors with our simple yet sensational Orzo Feta Pasta Salad. This dish is more than just a salad; it’s a symphony of textures and tastes, designed to be both satisfying and incredibly refreshing. The small, rice-shaped orzo pasta perfectly cradles the vibrant ingredients, while the briny feta, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and sharp red onion create a harmonious blend. Drizzled with a light, tangy dressing infused with olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon, and a hint of honey, this salad is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re planning a summer picnic, a barbecue, or just looking for an easy weeknight meal, this orzo salad delivers on both flavor and convenience.

Ingredients

The beauty of this Orzo Feta Pasta Salad lies in the quality and freshness of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating a balanced and flavorful experience. Using fresh, ripe vegetables will elevate the salad significantly, bringing natural sweetness and crunch that perfectly complements the tender orzo and salty feta.

Instructions

Preparing this Orzo Feta Pasta Salad is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and visually appealing dish. The key is to cool the pasta thoroughly and allow the flavors to meld in the refrigerator.

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil on the stove. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Orzo cooks relatively quickly, usually in 8-10 minutes, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. Once cooked, drain the orzo thoroughly and rinse it immediately with cold water. Rinsing stops the cooking process and removes excess starch, preventing the pasta from clumping together and ensuring a lighter texture for your salad. Set aside to cool completely.
2. While the orzo is cooking or cooling, prepare your dressing. In a small bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients: olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, honey, pepper, and salt. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing is emulsified. This ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the salad. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed – you might want a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice depending on your preference.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, sliced cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, diced English cucumber, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh basil. Pour the whisked dressing over the salad ingredients. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a more delicious and cohesive dish. For best results, chill for 2-3 hours. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Orzo Feta Pasta Salad!

Expert Tip: For an even more intense flavor, prepare the salad a day in advance. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld, making it an excellent meal-prep option.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

This Orzo Feta Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes and occasions. It shines brightly as a standalone light lunch, a vibrant side dish for grilled meats or fish, or a crowd-pleasing addition to any potluck or barbecue spread. Consider serving it alongside lemon-herb grilled chicken, baked salmon, or even simple pan-seared halloumi for a vegetarian main course. The fresh, tangy profile makes it an excellent counterpoint to richer dishes, offering a refreshing palate cleanser.

Customization Ideas:

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, stir in cooked and cooled grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or white beans.
• Extra Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value and crunch by adding finely diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, or a handful of fresh spinach or arugula.
• Herb Power: Experiment with other fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or mint for a different aromatic profile.
• Cheese Swap: While feta is traditional, crumbled goat cheese or small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) can offer a creamier alternative.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick if you like a bit of heat.
• Tangy Twist: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of capers or a few sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained and chopped).

Storage Information

Leftover Orzo Feta Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, the flavors often deepen overnight, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. If the salad seems a little dry after a day or two, you can refresh it with a tiny drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.

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