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Fresh Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Version

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A quick and easy Mediterranean orzo salad featuring sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a bright lemon dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (170g) dry orzo pasta
  • ½ cup (about 75g) sun-dried tomatoes, preferably packed in oil
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional)
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup (170g) orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  3. While the orzo cooks, dice 1 medium cucumber and ¼ cup red onion. Chop ½ cup fresh parsley and, if using, 2 tablespoons fresh mint. Drain ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (if packed in oil) and slice into thin strips.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, salt, and pepper to taste.
  5. Add the cucumber, onion, sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, and mint to the cooled orzo. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly to combine.
  6. Gently fold in ½ cup crumbled feta cheese last to keep it intact and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
  7. Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not overcook the orzo; it should be al dente. Rinse the orzo with cold water after cooking to prevent clumping. Drain sun-dried tomatoes well to avoid excess oil weighing down the salad. The salad tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight. For gluten-free, substitute orzo with quinoa or gluten-free pasta. Variations include adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or swapping sun-dried tomatoes for fresh cherry tomatoes.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean, orzo salad, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, easy salad, quick recipe, vegetarian, summer salad

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/fresh-mediterranean-orzo-salad-recipe-easy-sun-dried-tomato-version/