When you think of orzo salad, you probably think of a light, refreshing summer dish. But this orzo salad is so much more than that. This orzo salad is packed with flavor and texture, making it a great side dish for any meal. With its combination of crunchy vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and bright lemon vinaigrette, this is one orzo salad you won't soon forget. Read on to learn how to make the best orzo salad ever.
Ingredients
This orzo salad is made with a few simple ingredients, but it packs a lot of flavor. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 cup orzo
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
To make the best orzo salad ever, you'll need to start by cooking the orzo. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the orzo. Cook the orzo according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside to cool.
Once the orzo is cool, add the diced red bell pepper, diced cucumber, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped mint. Toss everything together until it's combined.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the orzo salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. Serve the orzo salad cold or at room temperature.
Tips
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the orzo salad, such as cherry tomatoes or diced red onion.
- You can substitute feta cheese for goat cheese, if desired.
- If you don't have fresh parsley or mint, you can use dried herbs.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to the orzo salad to make it a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does orzo salad last in the refrigerator?
Orzo salad will last up to five days in the refrigerator. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.
Can I make this orzo salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the orzo salad up to one day ahead of time. The flavors will have plenty of time to meld together and the salad will taste even better the next day.
Can I use other types of cheese in this orzo salad?
Yes, feta cheese can be substituted with goat cheese, mozzarella cheese, or any other type of cheese you like.
What are some other vegetables I can add to the orzo salad?
You can add grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers. You can also add diced red onion or cherry tomatoes for some extra crunch and flavor.
Does this orzo salad need to be served cold?
No, you can serve the orzo salad at room temperature. If you do refrigerate it, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
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