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Quick Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad

Quick Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad for Effortless Summer Meals

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This Quick Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad combines vibrant flavors and textures, perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup orzo consider whole wheat or tri-color orzo for a nutrition boost
  • 1 cup tomatoes diced into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 cup cucumbers diced; swap in zucchini or bell peppers if desired
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1/2 cup olives use Kalamata or green olives
  • 1/2 cup feta crumbled; goat cheese is a delightful substitute
  • 2 tablespoons dill chopped; fresh parsley or basil works too
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup olive oil any refined oil will do in a pinch
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice you can substitute with vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon oregano adjust to personal taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or use fresh minced garlic
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper consider adding chili flakes for heat

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by dicing the tomatoes and cucumbers into 1/2-inch pieces, finely chop the red onion and set the veggies aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add the orzo and cook for 8–10 minutes until al dente.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Once the orzo is cooked, drain in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process.
  5. In the mixing bowl with the vegetables, add the cooled orzo, sliced olives, crumbled feta, and chopped dill. Pour the dressing over and toss until well combined.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best results, use fresh ingredients and garnish with extra feta and herbs before serving.

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