Anabelle Mclean Ina Garten’s Orzo Salad with Feta is a light and refreshing dish that combines tender orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and tangy feta cheese. Tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this salad is perfect as a side dish or a standalone meal.
What is Ina Garten Orzo Salad With Feta?
This salad features orzo pasta as the base, paired with fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and a flavorful lemon dressing. It’s versatile, easy to make, and ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch.
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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Orzo Salad With Feta
- Fresh and Flavorful: Packed with vibrant flavors from fresh vegetables and a citrusy dressing.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal cooking required.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as a side dish, light lunch, or party salad.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Orzo Salad With Feta
- Orzo pasta – 1 cup
- Cucumber – 1 large, diced
- Cherry tomatoes – 1 cup, halved
- Red onion – ¼ cup, finely chopped
- Feta cheese – ½ cup, crumbled
- Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Fresh dill – 1 tablespoon, chopped
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
- Lemon juice – 3 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Garlic – 1 clove, minced
- Dijon mustard – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Orzo Salad With Feta
Cook the Orzo
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse the orzo under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Vegetables
- Dice the cucumber and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Finely chop the red onion, parsley, and dill.
Make the Lemon Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, parsley, and dill.
- Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Serve
- Transfer the orzo salad to a serving dish.
- Garnish with additional feta cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
What Goes Well With Ina Garten Orzo Salad With Feta?
- Grilled Chicken: Adds protein for a complete meal.
- Lamb Chops: A Mediterranean pairing that complements the flavors.
- Pita Bread: Great for scooping up the salad.
- Hummus or Tzatziki: Delicious as side dips.
- Roasted Vegetables: A warm contrast to the chilled salad.
Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Orzo Salad With Feta
- Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Cook just until al dente for the best texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the flavor.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Customize the Vegetables: Add olives, spinach, or roasted red peppers for variety.
- Adjust the Dressing: Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
Creative Variations of Ina Garten Orzo Salad With Feta
- Add Protein: Include grilled shrimp, chicken, or chickpeas for a heartier dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Herb Swap: Replace parsley and dill with basil or mint for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or a similar pasta alternative.
- Vegan Option: Substitute feta with vegan cheese or omit it entirely.
Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Orzo Salad With Feta
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Serve Chilled: Toss the salad before serving to refresh the flavors.
- Avoid Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the vegetables and dressing may change.
Nutrition Value
- Calories: ~250 per serving
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fats: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
Wrapping Up
Ina Garten’s Orzo Salad with Feta is a fresh, versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant flavors and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for potlucks, picnics, or quick lunches. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a delicious taste of the Mediterranean!
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PrintIna Garten Orzo Salad With Feta Recipe
This salad features orzo pasta as the base, paired with fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and a flavorful lemon dressing. It’s versatile, easy to make, and ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling and Tossing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- Orzo pasta – 1 cup
- Cucumber – 1 large, diced
- Cherry tomatoes – 1 cup, halved
- Red onion – ¼ cup, finely chopped
- Feta cheese – ½ cup, crumbled
- Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Fresh dill – 1 tablespoon, chopped
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
- Lemon juice – 3 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Garlic – 1 clove, minced
- Dijon mustard – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
Instructions
Cook the Orzo
-
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
-
- Drain and rinse the orzo under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Vegetables
-
- Dice the cucumber and halve the cherry tomatoes.
-
- Finely chop the red onion, parsley, and dill.
Make the Lemon Vinaigrette
-
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
Assemble the Salad
-
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, parsley, and dill.
-
- Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Serve
-
- Transfer the orzo salad to a serving dish.
-
- Garnish with additional feta cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
