Get ready to transform your ordinary meal into a Mediterranean culinary adventure with this mouthwatering Kels Orzo Pasta Salad! Imagine a vibrant, zesty dish that combines the perfect balance of tender orzo, crisp vegetables, and tangy feta cheese – all dressed in a light, refreshing lemon vinaigrette. This isn't just a salad; it's a flavor explosion that will transport you to a sunny Italian coastline with every single bite. Whether you're hosting a summer party, looking for a quick lunch, or wanting to impress your dinner guests, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a medium-sized pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the orzo pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and chopped red onion.
- In a small separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to ensure even coating.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad and fold gently to distribute.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled.
Tips
- Always cook orzo al dente to maintain its ideal texture – mushy pasta can ruin the entire dish!
- Rinse the pasta with cold water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent clumping.
- Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop and marry together.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients – especially the olive oil and feta cheese – for the most authentic taste.
- Feel free to customize by adding protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal.
- For extra freshness, consider adding some chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving.
- If preparing in advance, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving to maintain the salad's crispness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
