This Easy Orzo Pasta Salad is a cheerful mix of small pasta, fresh veggies, and zesty dressing. It’s light, colorful, and perfect for a picnic or any meal!
Sometimes I toss in extra olives or cheese, just because they make it even yummier. Trust me, this salad is a hit at every gathering. Enjoy it cold or warm, it’s your choice!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small, rice-shaped pasta is perfect for salads. If you don’t have orzo, you can use couscous or even ditalini. Both will work well with the other ingredients!
Chickpeas: These add protein and a nice texture. For a different flavor or if you’re vegan, try using black beans or kidney beans instead.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness is fantastic! If they’re out of season, you can use regular tomatoes, but chop them into smaller pieces for similar effect.
Cucumber: Adds crunch and freshness. For a twist, try using bell peppers or even radishes if you’re looking for something with a bit more bite!
Kalamata Olives: These are briny and flavorful, perfect for this salad. Feel free to swap them for green olives or omit them if you’re not a fan.
Feta Cheese: It adds a tangy flavor that’s hard to beat. If you’re vegan, try using a plant-based feta or skip the cheese altogether for a lighter version.
How Do I Get the Orzo Just Right?
The trick to cooking orzo is to not overdo it. Here’s how to make sure it turns out perfectly:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil before adding the orzo.
- Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. This means it should have a slight bite!
- Once done, drain it immediately to stop cooking, and rinse it with cold water to cool it down.
- This helps keep the orzo from becoming mushy in your salad.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a light and delightful salad that everyone will enjoy! Don’t be afraid to mix in your favorite veggies or herbs for a personal touch!
Easy Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe – Quick & Tasty
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious orzo pasta salad will take about 10-15 minutes of prep time and requires at least 30 minutes to chill, allowing the flavors to come together. So, in total, you should allocate about 45 minutes to enjoy your fresh, tasty salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Orzo:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop it from cooking further. Set the cooled orzo aside.
2. Mixing the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo with the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything well.
3. Preparing the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until it’s well blended. This dressing adds zest and flavor to your salad!
4. Combining Dressing and Salad:
Pour the dressing over the orzo and veggie mixture. Use a gentle hand to toss everything together, making sure each ingredient is coated in that delicious dressing.
5. Final Touches:
Take a moment to taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed with more salt and pepper. Once it’s seasoned to your liking, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld beautifully!
6. Serving:
When you’re ready to serve, take it out of the fridge. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature. If you’d like, garnish with extra parsley on top for a fresh touch. Enjoy your easy, quick, and tasty orzo pasta salad!
FAQ for Easy Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Yes! Whole wheat orzo is a great alternative that adds more fiber and nutrients. Just cook it according to the package instructions, and the salad will still turn out delicious!
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
You can swap out the cucumbers and bell peppers for any of your favorite veggies. Zucchini, carrots, or even corn can add a nice crunch and flavor to your salad!
How Long Does This Pasta Salad Last in the Refrigerator?
The orzo pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the vegetables might lose some crispness over time.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely. You can also add extra chickpeas or some avocado for creaminess!
