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Greek Orzo Pasta Salad: A Fresh and Vibrant Delight

When it comes to summertime dining, nothing beats a fresh, vibrant salad that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavours. Greek Orzo Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that marries the comforting texture of orzo pasta with an array of fresh vegetables and tangy, fragrant ingredients. This salad is not only visually appealing but also easy to prepare, making it the perfect addition to picnics, barbecues, or as a hearty lunch.

What is Orzo?

Orzo is a type of pasta that resembles rice in shape and size. It is made from semolina flour and is incredibly versatile. While traditionally used in soups or baked dishes, orzo shines in salads due to its ability to absorb flavours from dressings and other ingredients, ensuring every mouthful is a pleasurable experience.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavours

The beauty of Greek Orzo Pasta Salad lies in its colourful and wholesome ingredients, often influenced by traditional Greek cuisine. Here’s a list of key components you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

• Orzo Pasta: Approximately 250 grams
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved, about 300 grams
• Cucumber: Diced, preferably an English cucumber for its mild flavour and lack of seeds
• Red Onion: Finely chopped for a sharp kick
• Bell Peppers: Diced in a variety of colours for visual appeal
• Kalamata Olives: Pitted and halved for that signature briny flavour
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled for creaminess and a touch of saltiness
• Fresh Herbs: A mix of parsley and mint can add freshness
• Lemon Juice: The juice of one large lemon for acidity
• Olive Oil: A generous splash of high-quality extra virgin olive oil
• Dried Oregano: A quintessential herb in Greek cooking
• Salt and Pepper: To taste

Preparing the Salad

1. Cook the Orzo:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:
While the orzo cools, chop your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell peppers, and finely chop the red onion. Feel free to adjust quantities to suit your preference or to include any seasonal vegetables you may have on hand.

3. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo with the prepared vegetables, olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Sprinkle in the chopped fresh herbs for an added burst of flavour.

4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring that all ingredients are well-coated.

5. Let it Marinate:
For the best flavour, allow the salad to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting period enables the orzo and vegetables to soak up the dressing and allows the flavours to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Greek Orzo Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile. It can be served as a standalone dish, a side salad accompanying grilled meats, or even as a wholesome lunch option on its own. For an added touch, consider serving it alongside grilled lemon chicken or fish, or as part of a mezze platter featuring hummus and tzatziki.

Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply seeking a light and nutritious meal, Greek Orzo Pasta Salad is a winner. Its delightful combination of flavours and textures, paired with its ease of preparation, makes it a go-to recipe in any season. With each bite, this salad transports you to the sun-drenched shores of Greece, celebrating the vibrant essence of Mediterranean cuisine. So grab your ingredients, and let this jaunty salad become a staple in your culinary repertoire!