Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Experience a burst of Mediterranean flavors with this Fresh Mediterranean Orzo Salad! It combines juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, tangy feta, and more, all tossed in a delightful herby vinaigrette. This vibrant salad is perfect for BBQs, picnics, or simply as a refreshing meal prep option. Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

🍝 2 cups orzo (boil according to package instructions)
🧅 1/2 red onion, diced
🥒 6 mini cucumbers, sliced
🫒 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
🍅 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
🥫 1 can (15.5oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
🧀 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
🌿 1/2 cup chopped parsley

Dressing:
🫒 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
🍇 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
🍚 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
🍋 Juice of 1 lemon
🌿 1 teaspoon dried mint
🌿 1 teaspoon oregano
🌿 1 teaspoon dried dill
🧂 1/2 teaspoon salt
🌶 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1- Cook the Orzo:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and rinse with cold water to cool and to prevent sticking.

2- Prepare the Dressing:

• In a bowl or jar, whisk together or shake the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, rice vinegar, lemon juice, dried mint, oregano, dill, salt, and black pepper.
• Mix well until fully combined.

3- Prep the Veggies:

• Dice the red onion.
• Slice or chop the mini cucumbers.
• Halve and quarter the cherry tomatoes.
• Halve and quarter the Kalamata olives.
• Rinse and drain the chickpeas.
• Chop the parsley.

4- Assemble the Salad:

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo (cooled), all chopped veggies, chickpeas, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
• Pour the dressing over the salad.
• Toss everything together until evenly coated.

5- Chill and Serve:

• (Optional but recommended) Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour to let the flavors meld.
• Toss again before serving and enjoy!

Prep Time: 20-25 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Calories: Approximately 450
Proteins: 10g
Fats: 27g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Equipment: Large pot, large bowl, whisk or jar, chopping board, knife

Cooking Tips:

• Be sure to rinse the orzo with cold water to stop the cooking process and keep it from clumping.
• For a more intense flavor, prepare the salad a day in advance.

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Fresh Mediterranean Orzo Salad