As I sat outside on a sun-drenched afternoon, enjoying the vibrant hues of summer, the idea struck me: it was time for a soufflé of flavors to accompany the season’s bliss. Enter the Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad, my go-to dish that’s as refreshing as a cool breeze on a hot day. This delightful salad combines tender orzo pasta with tangy sundried tomatoes and creamy feta, making it a perfect entry for any summer gathering. Not just quick to whip up, it’s also a crowd-pleaser, serving as a satisfying main course or a colorful side dish. Plus, its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins, ensuring everyone finds a bite they love. Ready to dive into a plate of Mediterranean goodness? Let’s get cooking! Why is this salad a summer essential? Refreshing, this Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad is the perfect antidote to bland fast food offerings. Vibrant flavors from sundried tomatoes and creamy feta make every bite sing! Versatile enough to be a main dish or side, it caters to any palate, and with a quick prep time, you’ll have more moments to enjoy summer. Combine it with your favorite proteins or grilled veggies for a substantial meal and serve it chilled to boost those warm weather vibes! Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Ingredients • Here’s what you need to create this vibrant dish! For the Salad Orzo Pasta – Forms the hearty base of the salad; consider gluten-free alternatives for dietary needs. Sundried Tomatoes – Provide the tangy flavor that defines the dish; be sure to use sundried for the true Mediterranean touch. Feta Cheese – Adds a creamy, saltiness; easily swap for plant-based cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Cucumbers – Bring a refreshing crunch; choose to peel or not based on your preference. Kalamata Olives – Offer briny depth; if you prefer, green olives can bring a different flavor twist. Fresh Basil and Parsley – Essential for lifting the dish’s flavors; feel free to mix in oregano for a unique touch. For the Dressing Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Serves as the dressing base, enriching the salad with healthy fats. Lemon Juice – Adds a pop of acidity and brightness; opt for freshly squeezed for the best taste. Garlic – Delivers a robust aroma; use minced or finely chopped for an even distribution throughout. Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences. Now you’re ready to create the delightful Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad that will uplift any summer gathering! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Step 1: Cook the Orzo Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still al dente. When ready, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process, preventing the pasta from becoming mushy. Step 2: Prepare Ingredients While the orzo cooks, take this time to chop the sundried tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and dice the cucumber for a refreshing crunch. Next, slice the Kalamata olives and finely chop fresh basil and parsley to release their vibrant aromas. Having all your ingredients ready will make combining the Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad a breeze. Step 3: Make the Dressing In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until the mixture is nicely emulsified. This simple dressing will elevate the flavors of the Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad, ensuring every ingredient shines. Set the dressing aside while you combine your salad ingredients. Step 4: Combine Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the cooled orzo with the prepared sundried tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced olives, herbs, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle the dressing over the top and mix everything together gently, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the veggies crisp and fresh. Step 5: Chill To let all the flavors develop, cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting period will allow the Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad to become even more delightful as the flavors blend together. It’s a great time to prepare any side dishes or beverages for your gathering! Step 6: Serve Just before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and garnish with additional fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. This refreshing Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it a perfect choice for summer picnics or gatherings. Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Variations Feel the freedom to craft your own version of this delightful salad with a few easy substitutions and enhancements! Dairy-Free: Substitute feta with plant-based cheese for a creamy, dairy-free delight without sacrificing flavor. Using a variety that crumbles well will keep the essence of the original. Grilled Veggies: Add grilled zucchini or bell peppers for a smokier flavor. The char from grilling enhances the freshness, making each bite burst with summer vibes. Protein-Packed: Toss in chickpeas or grilled chicken to elevate the salad into a heartier meal. This adds a satisfying protein boost that will keep you feeling fuller longer. Spice It Up: For a hint of heat, mix in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. A little kick can transform the salad, creating a fun flavor fiesta! Herb Swaps: Refresh the flavor profile by using fresh oregano or dill instead of basil and parsley. Each herb brings its own unique twist to the dish, inviting culinary creativity. Nutty Addition: Sprinkle in some roasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor depth. Their rich, buttery taste makes for a delightful textural contrast. Citrus Variance: Swap lemon juice with lime for a zesty twist! The lime’s acidity offers a refreshing change that pairs beautifully with the tangy sundried tomatoes. Pasta Choice: Experiment with different pasta shapes like farro or quinoa for a fun twist on texture and taste. Each grain brings its own character, changing the salad completely. Explore these variations and create a Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad that suits your taste perfectly! For more delightful flavors, you might consider pairing this with grilled chicken kebabs for a complete meal or incorporating some freshly made Mediterranean-style bread. Happy cooking! Make Ahead Options These Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad preparations are perfect for busy meal preppers! You can cook the orzo and chop vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing the ingredients separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their textures. Additionally, you can whisk together the dressing (olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper) and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the cooled orzo with the vegetables, crumbled feta, and dressing, mixing gently to keep everything fresh and vibrant. This method ensures your salad remains just as delicious while saving valuable time for your busy weeknights! What to Serve with Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Elevate your meal experience by pairing the delightful tastes of this vibrant salad with complementary dishes that enhance its Mediterranean charm. Grilled Chicken Kebabs: Juicy and flavorful, these kebabs add a hearty protein component that perfectly balances the salad’s freshness. Mediterranean Chickpea Stew: Earthy and rich, this stew layers in spices and legumes, making a filling combination with the light orzo salad. Feel free to pair this salad with the above options for a hearty and satisfying summer spread. The tender grilled chicken or comforting chickpea stew complements the refreshing salad beautifully while enhancing the meal’s nutritional value. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted seasonal veggies offer a sweet, caramelized flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the tangy salad. Grilled Shrimp: Light and succulent, shrimp grilled with a splash of lemon make for a delightful seafood addition that pairs seamlessly with the dish. With these delicious pairings, your Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad will shine on any table and satisfy every palate! Expert Tips for Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Cool Orzo Properly: Ensure the orzo is fully cooled before mixing with fresh herbs and vegetables to maintain their vibrant textures and flavors. Customize Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins like chickpeas or grilled chicken to enhance the Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad to your taste. Store Wisely: Leftovers should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; avoid freezing, as it may alter the salad’s texture. Serve with Flair: For a stunning presentation, consider serving the salad in hollowed-out tomatoes or cucumbers, elevating your dish for any occasion. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality olive oil bring out the best flavors, making your salad taste restaurant-quality right at home. How to Store and Freeze Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Always let the salad cool completely before refrigerating. Freezer: Avoid freezing the Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad, as the texture of the orzo and fresh vegetables may change, resulting in a less appealing dish. Reheating: If serving chilled, simply toss the salad before enjoying. There’s no need to reheat; serve it cold or at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture. Make-Ahead: This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just keep it covered and chilled until you’re ready to serve it, ensuring those vibrant flavors meld beautifully! Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe sundried tomatoes? Absolutely! Look for sundried tomatoes that are plump and have a deep, rich color. They should not be overly dry or hard—slightly moist ones are ideal for a burst of flavor in your salad. If you can, choose those packed in oil for added richness, but if you only find dry ones, you may soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to rehydrate. What is the best way to store my Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad? Very easy! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure it’s completely cooled before placing it in the fridge to maintain that fresh taste. If it separates, just give it a gentle toss before serving! Can I freeze Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad? Unfortunately, I don’t recommend it. Freezing the salad could lead to mushy textures, particularly with the orzo and fresh ingredients. However, if you want to prepare it in advance, you can make the salad a day ahead and refrigerate it—it’ll taste even better after allowing the flavors to meld! What should I do if my orzo is too sticky? If you find your orzo has become sticky, it’s likely not rinsed enough after cooking. Be sure to drain it well and rinse it under cold water right after draining, as this halts the cooking process and keeps the pasta from clumping. Adding a drizzle of olive oil when it’s still warm can also help keep it loose. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Absolutely! This Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad is naturally vegetarian, but to make it gluten-free, just swap the orzo for gluten-free pasta options available. Additionally, if you have lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy, you can easily substitute the feta with a plant-based cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that caters to diverse dietary needs! Refreshing Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad for Summer Bliss Enjoy this refreshing Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad, a perfect accompaniment for summer gatherings with vibrant flavors and versatile ingredients. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsChill Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: SaladsCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salad1 cup orzo pasta consider gluten-free alternatives1/2 cup sundried tomatoes chopped1 cup feta cheese crumbled; can substitute for plant-based cheese1 cup cucumbers diced; peel or not based on preference1/2 cup Kalamata olives sliced; green olives can be used1/4 cup fresh basil finely chopped1/4 cup fresh parsley finely choppedFor the Dressing1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed1 clove garlic mincedto taste saltto taste pepper Equipment Large PotColanderMixing BowlSmall bowlWhisk Method Cooking InstructionsBring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add orzo pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes until tender, then drain and rinse under cold water. While the orzo cooks, chop sundried tomatoes and dice the cucumber. Slice Kalamata olives and chop fresh basil and parsley. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified. In a large mixing bowl, toss cooled orzo with sundried tomatoes, cucumber, olives, herbs, and feta. Drizzle dressing over and mix gently. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let flavors develop. Before serving, toss the salad gently and garnish with additional basil or parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesCustomize the salad by adding your favorite veggies or proteins like chickpeas or grilled chicken. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
