Description
Savor the Flavors of Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad – a delightful fusion of fresh ingredients that tantalizes the taste buds and nourishes the body. This vibrant dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, packing a picnic lunch, or seeking a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
- 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)
- 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, crumbled feta, and fresh parsley or basil.
2. Prepare the Balsamic Vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
3. For best flavor, chill the salad for 15-30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the ingredients to marinate in the delicious dressing. When ready to serve, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the vinaigrette.
Notes
The beauty of this Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or the occasion. Consider adding other crisp vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or radishes for extra crunch and color. For a heartier meal, top it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Vegetarians can opt for a vegan feta alternative or leave out the cheese altogether.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg