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Orzo Pasta Salad

Zesty Orzo Pasta Salad That Will Brighten Your Day

A refreshing Orzo Pasta Salad with vibrant veggies and creamy feta, perfect for warm summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup orzo gluten-free orzo can be substituted
  • 2 cups Lacinato kale can substitute with Romaine lettuce
  • 1 each red bell pepper any color bell pepper may be used
  • 1 each shallot can replace with green onions or red onion
  • 3/4 cup crumbled feta substitute with vegan feta or omit for lower calories
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan omit for vegan version or use vegan cheese
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup olive oil extra virgin recommended
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice can substitute with lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar can swap for apple cider vinegar
  • to taste kosher salt
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • small mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of kosher salt. Bring it to a rolling boil, then add 1 cup of orzo. Cook according to package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once ready, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse with cold water.
  2. While the orzo is cooling, combine 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Whisk until well-blended.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled orzo along with 2 cups of chopped Lacinato kale, 1 sliced red bell pepper, and 1 thinly sliced shallot. Add 3/4 cup of grated Parmesan and 1 cup of crumbled feta. Gently blend all ingredients.
  4. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss to ensure even coating of the dressing.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
  6. Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best results, chill the salad before serving, and consider adding kalamata olives or grilled shrimp for extra flavors.

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