Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe – The Pioneer Woman
Vibrant colors and varied textures form a memorable centerpiece for gatherings.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe
If you’re looking for a salad that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate, you’ve found your match. The Mediterranean Orzo Salad from The Pioneer Woman is a bright, texture-rich dish that comes together in minutes but tastes like it’s been carefully crafted for hours. It’s packed with orzo pasta, crunchy vegetables, creamy chickpeas, briny olives, tangy feta, and fresh herbs—all tossed in a lemony, garlicky dressing that ties everything together. This salad is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a refreshing vegetarian main course.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
There are countless reasons to love this Mediterranean orzo salad:
- Versatile: Works as a side or a main, and pairs beautifully with grilled meats, veggies, or even just a slice of crusty bread.
- Colorful: Cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and parsley make it a visual delight.
- Flavorful: The combination of salty feta, zesty lemon, and fresh garlic is craveable.
- Textural: Every bite offers something different—the chew of pasta, the crunch of onions, the creaminess of chickpeas, and the pop of tomatoes.
- Easy to Customize: Swap in your favorite veggies or proteins for endless variations.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon (juiced) | 1 whole |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Orzo pasta (cooked, drained, and cooled) | 12 oz. |
| Yellow grape or cherry tomatoes | 1 cup |
| Kalamata olives (pitted, halved) | 1 cup |
| Crumbled feta cheese | 1 cup (optional, more to serve) |
| Chickpeas (drained) | 1 cup |
| Red onion (diced) | 1/2 |
| Fresh parsley (minced) | 3 Tbsp. (plus more to serve) |
How to Make Mediterranean Orzo Salad
- Make the Dressing: In a jar, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Shake until well combined.
- Mix the Salad: Place cooled orzo in a large mixing bowl. Add tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, chickpeas, red onion, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Just before serving, top with extra feta and parsley.
Helpful Tips
- Don’t Overcook Orzo: Orzo should be tender but still slightly firm—like al dente regular pasta—so it doesn’t turn mushy in the salad.
- Room for Creativity: Go beyond the base ingredients—try adding diced cucumbers, other cheese varieties, or even grilled chicken for extra protein.
- Let the Flavors Marry: Let the salad chill for at least an hour for the best taste. Leftovers are even better the next day!
- Make It Your Own: Adjust the balance of vegetables, olives, and cheese to suit your taste.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about this salad is how adaptable it is:
- Add Parmesan: For a richer flavor, sprinkle some shaved Parmesan on top.
- Grilled Chicken: Make it a heartier main by adding diced grilled chicken.
- Extra Vegetables: Diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even grilled zucchini are excellent additions.
- Serve With: This salad pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, burgers, or simply as a standalone vegetarian meal.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The flavors continue to meld, making leftovers especially tasty. For best results, add extra parsley and feta just before serving to keep things fresh and vibrant.
About Orzo
Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta that’s versatile and quick to cook. It’s popular in Mediterranean and Italian cuisines and works beautifully in both hot and cold dishes. When cooked, orzo expands significantly, so allow for this when portioning for your salad.
What Goes Well with Mediterranean Orzo Salad?
Here are some delicious serving ideas:
- Grilled Chicken or Steak Kebabs: The tangy salad perfectly complements smoky grilled meats.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside a tray of roasted eggplant, zucchini, and peppers.
- Burgers and Sandwiches: Pair with burgers or grilled sandwiches for a complete meal.
- Picnic Sides: Take to picnics or potlucks—it travels well and stays fresh for hours.
What others are reading
FAQs About Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Can I Make This Salad Ahead?
Yes! In fact, it’s encouraged. The flavors improve as it chills, so it’s great for make-ahead meals.
Is This Salad Vegetarian?
Yes, as written, this salad is vegetarian. For a vegan version, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Orzo?
Orzo is a type of pasta, so using brown rice will change the texture and flavor. However, you can certainly experiment with other grains like quinoa, farro, or couscous for a similar effect.
What Can I Use If I Can’t Find Kalamata Olives?
Any pitted black olive can be substituted, though Kalamata olives are recommended for their authentic Mediterranean flavor.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it’s best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal freshness.
Can I Add Meat to the Salad?
Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sliced steak are excellent additions for a heartier dish.
Is This Salad Gluten-Free?
Traditional orzo contains gluten. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free orzo or use a compatible grain like quinoa.
Final Thoughts
The Mediterranean Orzo Salad from The Pioneer Woman is a crowd-pleaser—whether at a casual barbecue, a potluck, or on your weekly dinner table. It’s fresh, vibrant, and endlessly customizable, making it a must-try recipe for any occasion. Give it a try and watch it become your new favorite summer dish!
References
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