Description
A refreshing and colorful Orzo Pasta Salad featuring tender orzo pasta combined with crisp cucumber, sweet red bell pepper, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty red wine vinegar dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook 1 1/2 cups of orzo pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool it down.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled orzo, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste until fully blended.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the orzo salad and toss thoroughly to coat all the ingredients with the flavorful dressing.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and serve chilled for the best taste.
Notes
- For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or mint for a different flavor twist.
- To make it vegan, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- If you prefer a tangier salad, add extra red wine vinegar to taste.
