Warm Orzo Salad
Savor the vibrant flavors of this Warm Orzo Salad, a quick and wholesome dish that's perfect for any occasion. Featuring tender orzo pasta tossed with fresh baby spinach, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy crumbled feta, this salad is elevated by a zesty lemon-garlic dressing and toasted pine nuts for added crunch. With its harmonious blend of textures and bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Whether served warm for a comforting main course or as a chilled side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, this versatile salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups orzo pasta
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 0.5 cup red onion
- 0.5 cup feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions (approximately 8-10 minutes), or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the orzo cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the pine nuts (if using) and toast, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Prepare the dressing by whisking together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm orzo, cherry tomatoes (halved), baby spinach, diced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Top the salad with the toasted pine nuts (if using) and freshly chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve immediately while warm, or let it cool slightly if preferred. This salad can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or alongside grilled proteins.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
455 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 18.1 g | 23% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.7 g | 23% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 17 mg | 6% | |
| Sodium | 470 mg | 20% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 62.6 g | 23% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.1 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.9 g | ||
| Protein | 13.6 g | 27% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 135 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 2.9 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 263 mg | 6% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
