Greek Style Orzo Salad
Greek Style Orzo Salad is a light and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. It combines tender orzo pasta with creamy feta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy pumpkin seeds. This salad is not only delicious but also colorful and packed with nutrients.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Greek Style Orzo Salad is a great choice for several reasons. First, it is quick and easy to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Second, it is versatile; you can serve it as a side dish or as a main dish. Finally, this salad is healthy and satisfying, thanks to the combination of whole ingredients.
How to Make Greek Style Orzo Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas), toasted
Directions:
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions; drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, feta cheese, cherry tomatoes (if using), red onion, and pumpkin seeds.
- Gently toss the ingredients together.
- Season with salt, pepper, and additional herbs if desired.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve Greek Style Orzo Salad
Greek Style Orzo Salad can be served as a stand-alone dish or alongside grilled meats, fish, or other salads. It is also a great addition to a picnic or potluck. You can serve it in individual bowls or on a large platter for sharing.
How to Store Greek Style Orzo Salad
To store Greek Style Orzo Salad, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It typically stays fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you plan to keep it for longer, consider storing the salad ingredients separately and combining them just before serving.
Tips to Make Greek Style Orzo Salad
- For added flavor, consider tossing in some fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
- Toast the pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
- Use whole wheat orzo for a healthier alternative.
Variation
You can customize this salad by adding other vegetables, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives. You can also switch the cheese to goat cheese or omit it for a dairy-free version.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it in the fridge until serving.
Q: Is Greek Style Orzo Salad gluten-free?
A: No, orzo is typically made from wheat. However, you can use gluten-free pasta instead.
Q: Can I add protein to this salad?
A: Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great additions for extra protein.
Greek Style Orzo Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light and refreshing dish combining tender orzo pasta with creamy feta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy pumpkin seeds.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas), toasted
Instructions
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions; drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, feta cheese, cherry tomatoes (if using), red onion, and pumpkin seeds.
- Gently toss the ingredients together.
- Season with salt, pepper, and additional herbs if desired.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For added flavor, toss in fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Toast pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: orzo, salad, Mediterranean, healthy, side dish