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Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun Dried Tomatoes

Delicious Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

This Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a refreshing, flavorful dish perfect for potlucks and summer barbecues.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups Orzo Pasta substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed
  • 1 cup Kalamata Olives use green olives for a different taste
  • 1 medium Red Onion substitute with green onions for a milder flavor
  • 1 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes fresh tomatoes can be used if preferred
  • 2 cups Spinach arugula can be substituted for a peppery kick
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil dried herbs can be used but will alter the freshness
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Mint dried herbs can be used but will alter the freshness
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper use white pepper for a subtler flavor
  • 1/2 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil avocado oil makes a great alternative
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice lime juice can be a suitable substitute
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest omit if desired, but this will lose the fresh flavor
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese goat cheese can be used for a similar texture

Equipment

  • heavy saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing 2 quarts of salted water to a rolling boil in a heavy saucepan over high heat. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When done, the orzo should be tender but firm; drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, transfer the rinsed orzo. Add in the kalamata olives, finely chopped red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Toss in freshly chopped basil and mint as well, ensuring that the vibrant colors and flavors are evenly distributed.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together freshly cracked black pepper, extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined. Then, gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and use a spatula to gently fold everything together. Be careful not to break the feta as you combine the ingredients.
  5. Cover the salad with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
  6. Before serving, taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more lemon juice or olive oil to your liking.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 9gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Serve chilled for the best flavor. Mix up your veggies based on preferences for varied textures and tastes.

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