As the summer sun begins to wane, there's no better way to celebrate the season's bounty than with a vibrant and refreshing End of Summer Orzo Salad! Bursting with colorful vegetables and the creamy goodness of feta cheese, this dish is not just a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for your taste buds. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light dinner, this salad is a quick and easy recipe that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Ready to whip up a dish that captures the essence of summer? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have everyone coming back for more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the orzo is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Rinse the cherry tomatoes under cold water, then slice them in half. Next, peel the cucumber and dice it into small, bite-sized pieces. Finally, peel and chop the red onion into small pieces.
- Once the orzo is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Allow the orzo to drain well.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss the ingredients together until evenly mixed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drizzle the dressing over the orzo salad and gently toss again to ensure all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the End of Summer Orzo Salad chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy as a refreshing side dish or a light main course!
Tips
- Cook the Orzo to Perfection: Make sure to cook the orzo until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. This will help the pasta maintain its texture in the salad.
- Chill for Maximum Flavor: Allow the salad to sit for at least 5 minutes after mixing in the dressing. This resting time lets the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables! Bell peppers, olives, or even avocado can elevate this salad to your personal taste.
- Fresh Herbs for Extra Zing: Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness. They can make a significant difference in flavor and presentation.
- Serve at the Right Temperature: This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for gatherings or meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
