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Homemade Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 71 reviews

A vibrant and flavorful Homemade Orzo Pasta Salad featuring tangy feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and fresh herbs, perfect as a light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Orzo Pasta:

  • 2 qt water
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 lb orzo

For the Mix-ins and Dressing:

  • 1/2 lb kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion
  • 12 oz sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and diced
  • 1 cup spinach, sliced thin
  • 3 tbsp fresh basil, thinly cut
  • 3 tbsp fresh mint, thin strips
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Zest from 1 lemon, grated
  • 1/3 lb feta cheese, crumbled

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo Pasta: In a heavy saucepan, bring 2 quarts of water and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil. Add 1 pound of orzo to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until tender. Drain the orzo thoroughly in a colander, ensuring no excess water remains.
  2. Combine Pasta with Vegetables and Herbs: Transfer the drained orzo to a large serving bowl. Add 1/2 pound chopped kalamata olives, 1/2 cup chopped red onion, 12 ounces diced sun-dried tomatoes, 1 cup thinly sliced spinach, grated zest from 1 lemon, 3 tablespoons fresh basil, and 3 tablespoons fresh mint. Mix well to evenly distribute all ingredients and begin melding flavors.
  3. Dress the Salad and Finish: Add 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and 1/3 pound crumbled feta cheese to the salad. Gently toss to combine, taking care not to break up the feta too much. Serve at room temperature or chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors before serving.

Notes

  • Letting the salad rest for at least 30 minutes in the fridge melds the flavors beautifully.
  • This salad can be served as a main course or a side dish with grilled meats or vegetables.
  • Drain the sun-dried tomatoes well to avoid excess oil in the salad.
  • Use fresh herbs for best flavor; dried herbs will not provide the same aroma or taste.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: orzo salad, feta cheese salad, sun-dried tomato pasta salad, Mediterranean pasta salad, vegetarian pasta salad

Find it online: https://biteandenjoy.com/homemade-orzo-pasta-salad-with-feta-and-sun-dried-tomatoes-recipe/