This light and refreshing orzo salad is perfect for any gathering! It’s packed with yummy veggies, like tomatoes and cucumbers, and tossed in a zesty dressing that tastes amazing.
The best part? It comes together so quickly! I love to make it ahead of time, so it’s ready when I am. Plus, it’s great for lunch leftovers—just bring it to work, and everyone will be jealous! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta shape is great for salads! If you don’t have orzo, try using quinoa or another small pasta shape like couscous. Both will give you a nice texture, and quinoa adds some protein.
Chickpeas: These are packed with protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan of chickpeas, you can use cooked kidney beans or black beans for a different taste. Tofu is another excellent option for protein.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, cherry tomatoes make this salad pop. If they’re out of season, you can substitute with diced regular tomatoes, but you might want to add a little sugar to enhance their sweetness.
Cucumber: Adds crunch! If cucumbers aren’t available, try bell peppers for a similar texture or cooked zucchini for a softer flavor.
Red Onion: Offers a sharp bite. If it’s too strong for you, use green onions, which are milder. You could also soak chopped onions in water to lessen the sharpness.
Fresh Parsley: Provides a fresh flavor to the dish. If parsley isn’t handy, fresh basil or cilantro can work well, giving the salad a different but lovely taste.
How Can I Make Perfectly Cooked Orzo?
Cooking orzo might seem simple, but getting it just right is key. You want it to be tender but still firm when you bite into it, known as “al dente.” Here’s how:
- Start by bringing water to a boil, and make sure it’s bubbling well before adding the orzo.
- Stir it immediately to prevent clumping and keep an eye on it. Check the package for cooking time—usually around 8-10 minutes.
- When it’s done, drain the orzo immediately and rinse it with cold water. This stops the cooking and helps keep it from getting mushy.
Note: The rinsing step is crucial in salads, as it helps the pasta stay separate and cool down quickly for tossing with the other fresh ingredients!
How to Make Orzo Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups water
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions (scallions), sliced
- 1 lemon, juiced (plus lemon slices for garnish)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious orzo salad will take about 20-25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the orzo and the rest mixing the ingredients together. After that, just let it sit for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors blend!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Orzo Pasta:
Start by bringing 2 cups of water to a boil in a pot. Once it’s boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Afterward, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the orzo aside to cool.
2. Mixing the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, chopped parsley, and sliced green onions. This colorful mix will add plenty of flavor and crunch to your salad!
3. Adding the Orzo:
Once the orzo is cooled, add it to the bowl with the mixed vegetables. It’s time to create a delicious blend of textures and tastes!
4. Making the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This dressing will give your salad a zesty kick. Pour it over the orzo and vegetables, ensuring everything is well coated.
5. Toss and Serve:
Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are evenly mixed and coated with the dressing. Give it a little taste to see if you want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your flavor preference.
6. Letting it Sit:
Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together nicely. This waiting time makes a big difference! Finally, serve your orzo salad garnished with a few lemon slices and enjoy your refreshing and healthy dish!
Can I Substitute Other Types of Pasta for Orzo?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can use other small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just adjust the cooking times according to the package instructions for whichever pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan since it doesn’t contain any animal products. Just make sure the olive oil you use is suitable for your dietary preferences, and you’re all set! You can also enhance the flavor with additional herbs or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Orzo Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually improve as they sit! You may need to add a splash more olive oil or lemon juice before serving to freshen it up.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Yes! This salad is very versatile. Feel free to add bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even some feta cheese for extra flavor. Just remember to keep the balance of flavors in mind and adjust the dressing as needed!
