This refreshing orzo pasta salad is perfect for warm summer days! With colorful veggies, tasty herbs, and a zesty dressing, it’s light and full of flavor.
Making this salad is a breeze! I love enjoying it at picnics or as a side dish at barbecues. Plus, it can be made a day ahead, so you can relax and enjoy the sunshine!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This short, rice-shaped pasta is perfect for salads. If you can’t find orzo, substitute with other small pasta like ditalini or couscous for similar texture.
Chickpeas: They add protein and heartiness. If you’re looking for a different flavor or texture, white beans or black beans work well too!
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy cherry tomatoes are fantastic here! You could use regular tomatoes; just chop them into bite-sized pieces. You might also consider adding sun-dried tomatoes for a new twist.
Cucumber: Crunchy cucumber adds freshness. If you need a substitute, try diced bell peppers or zucchini for a crisp texture.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives the salad a salty bite. If you prefer a vegan option, you can use crumbled tofu or leave it out altogether.
How Do I Make Sure My Orzo Isn’t Overcooked?
Cooking orzo perfectly is important for this salad. Overcooked orzo can become mushy. Here’s how to get it right:
- Boil water in a large pot and add salt for flavor.
- Follow the package instructions, checking the pasta a minute or two before the recommended time.
- Once tender but still firm (al dente), drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking and helps keep the pasta from sticking together.
By rinsing, you keep the orzo perfectly cooked and ready for your salad!
What’s the Best Way to Make the Dressing Flavorful?
To create a delicious dressing for your orzo salad, follow these steps:
- Whisk the olive oil, vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper together until smooth.
- Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust it with more seasoning or vinegar to match your preference.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before tossing it with the salad. This allows the flavors to meld nicely!
This simple technique ensures every bite of your salad will be bursting with flavor!
Easy Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe For Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing orzo pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After mixing, you’ll want to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend together, bringing the total time to about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it until it’s al dente, then drain the pasta. To cool it down and stop the cooking, rinse it under cold water. Once it’s cool, set it aside.
2. Combine the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, halved Kalamata olives, and the optional red onion if you love extra crunch and flavor.
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined, creating a zesty dressing.
4. Toss It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the orzo and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together so the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly, making it deliciously flavorful!
5. Add the Final Touches:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top of your salad. Give it a light toss to combine these final ingredients.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Now it’s time to taste your salad! Adjust the seasoning with a little more salt, pepper, or vinegar/lemon juice if you’d like. Perfecting the flavor will make a big difference!
7. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow all the flavors to meld and create an even tastier dish!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your orzo pasta salad can be served cold or at room temperature. It makes a wonderful side dish for summer cookouts or a light main course for lunch. Enjoy this vibrant and refreshing salad all season long!
Enjoy your easy, vibrant, and flavorful summer orzo salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Easy Orzo Pasta Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great choice if you’re looking for a healthier option. It will add a nutty flavor and extra fiber to your salad.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Orzo Pasta Salad?
You can store any leftover orzo pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for maximum freshness and flavor.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan by omitting the feta cheese or replacing it with a plant-based feta alternative. The salad will still be delicious without it!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your salad with other vegetables! Bell peppers, zucchini, corn, or even asparagus would work wonderfully. Just be sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
