This refreshing orzo pasta salad is perfect for summer gatherings! With colorful veggies and a zesty dressing, it’s a delicious side that everyone will love.
Making this salad is a breeze! I like to whip it up the night before so the flavors can mingle. Plus, it tastes even better the next day—just like me after a good night’s sleep! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta is great for salads. If you can’t find it, you can use ditalini, couscous, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Chickpeas: Chickpeas add protein and a nice texture. If you’re not a fan, white beans or black beans are great substitutes!
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness is perfect here. You can use regular tomatoes, just be sure to chop them small. Grape tomatoes work well too.
Cucumber: For crunch, cucumbers are ideal. You could swap them for bell peppers or even zucchini for a different flavor.
Kalamata Olives: These add a nice briny taste. If you prefer, you could use green olives or skip them for a milder flavor.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a creamy texture. Try goat cheese or even shredded mozzarella if you want to change it up.
How Do I Get the Right Flavor Balance in the Dressing?
The dressing is key to making your orzo salad shine. Mix olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Greek flavors for a refreshing taste. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Use red wine vinegar for a tangy kick. You could replace it with lemon juice for a brighter taste.
- Don’t skip the garlic—minced adds a punch! Adjust the amount based on your preference.
- Mix in oregano for an herbaceous note. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also work nicely.
- Season generously with salt and pepper to taste; this really pulls the flavors together.
Whisk everything together until it’s smooth, and remember, let the salad chill so the flavors can really combine!
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 large cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful orzo pasta salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. Plus, let it chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour to let the flavors blend together—that’s the best part!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain it and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set the orzo aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Mix in the Veggies and Chickpeas:
In the same bowl with the orzo, add the drained chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, halved Kalamata olives, diced red bell pepper, and chopped parsley. Give everything a good stir to combine.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk it all together until the dressing is smooth and well-mixed.
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the orzo and veggie mixture. Toss everything gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Add Feta Cheese:
Carefully fold in the crumbled feta cheese, being gentle so it doesn’t break up too much. You want those lovely creamy bits to stay intact!
6. Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps all those yummy flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve, you can garnish with a little extra parsley if desired and enjoy your refreshing summer dish!
Enjoy this easy, vibrant, and fresh orzo pasta salad—perfect for hot summer days!
FAQ for Easy Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! You can substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta, like brown rice pasta or quinoa pasta. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions to ensure the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Orzo Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just keep in mind to add the feta cheese right before serving to maintain its texture.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, you can use crumbled goat cheese, mozzarella, or even leave it out for a dairy-free option. Nutritional yeast can be a great substitute for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
