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Vibrant Orzo Salad

A colorful and nutritious salad made with orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and tangy feta, perfect for meal prep and family-friendly meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta the base providing heartiness
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes adds sweetness and juiciness
  • 1 cup Cucumber brings refreshing crunch
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion for a sharp, aromatic flavor
  • 1 medium Bell Pepper adds color and sweetness
  • 1/2 cup Feta Cheese creamy texture and tangy flavor
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley for a burst of freshness

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil enhances flavor while providing healthy fats
  • 2 tablespoons Juice of Lemon brightens every bite
  • to taste Salt and Pepper essential seasoning

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Gather all the ingredients on your kitchen countertop for easy access.
  • Rinse the orzo pasta under cold water to remove any excess starch.
  • Dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion.
  • Halve the cherry tomatoes and crumble the feta cheese.
  • Chop the fresh parsley for garnishing later.

Cooking / Assembling

  • Bring a pot of salted water to boil and add the orzo. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  • Once cooked, drain the orzo and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Let it cool completely.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, diced cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Pour the dressing over the salad and mix until well combined.

Serving

  • Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls.
  • Garnish with the chopped parsley for an added touch of freshness.
  • Optionally, add more feta on top for a creamier bite.
  • Serve immediately at room temperature or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes for a refreshing taste.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This salad is ideal for meal prep.
Keyword Fresh Salad, Healthy Salad, Meal Prep Salad, Orzo Salad, Vegetarian Salad