This Orzo Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Spinach is a delightful dish that combines the smooth texture of orzo pasta with the tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and the freshness of baby spinach. It’s a versatile salad that can be enjoyed warm or chilled, making it perfect for any occasion.
The recipe features crumbled feta cheese for added creaminess, a splash of olive oil, and lemon juice for brightness, along with hints of garlic and herbs for depth. This salad is ideal as a light lunch, meal prep option, or a crowd-pleasing side dish.
Refreshing Orzo Spinach Salad
This vibrant Orzo Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Spinach brings together a delightful mix of Mediterranean flavors. The orzo pasta is cooked to perfection, creating a tender base that pairs beautifully with the tangy sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach.
The combination of these ingredients results in a dish that is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor.
Whether served warm or chilled, this Spinach Orzo Salad is perfect for any occasion, from a light lunch to a crowd-pleasing side dish at gatherings.
With the addition of crumbled feta cheese, this salad becomes even more satisfying, offering a creamy texture that complements the other ingredients well.
In just about 30 minutes, you can prepare this Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad that serves four, making it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining.
Ingredients That Shine
The key components of this Orzo Sundried Tomato Salad include orzo pasta, which serves as the foundation, and sun-dried tomatoes that add a burst of tanginess.
Fresh baby spinach not only enhances the color but also contributes to the overall freshness of the dish.
Crumbled feta cheese introduces a creamy element, while a simple dressing of olive oil and lemon juice ties everything together beautifully.
For those who enjoy a hint of garlic, minced garlic can be added to the dressing for an extra layer of flavor.
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also be included for a touch of brightness, making this Spinach and Sun Dried Tomato Orzo a truly customizable dish.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing this Cold Orzo Pasta Salad is straightforward and quick. Start by cooking the orzo in a pot of boiling salted water until it reaches an al dente texture.
Once cooked, drain the orzo and set it aside to cool slightly.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create a simple yet flavorful dressing.
Combine the cooked orzo, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a large bowl, then drizzle the dressing over the mixture.
Gently toss everything together to ensure the ingredients are well coated.
Finishing Touches
To elevate the salad further, fold in the crumbled feta cheese and any fresh herbs you choose to use.
This step adds not only flavor but also a beautiful presentation with the contrasting colors of the ingredients.
For those who prefer a chilled salad, let it rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.
Whether enjoyed warm or cold, this Spinach Orzo Salad is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and delicious taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad can be served as a standalone dish or as a side alongside grilled meats or seafood.
Its versatility makes it suitable for picnics, barbecues, or even as a light dinner option.
For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a protein source like grilled chicken or shrimp, which complements the flavors beautifully.
With its refreshing taste and appealing presentation, this Orzo Salad with Feta is bound to be a favorite at any gathering.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this Orzo Pasta Salad delicious, but it also offers a range of nutritional benefits.
Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, making it a light yet satisfying option.
With a balance of carbohydrates from the orzo, healthy fats from the olive oil, and protein from the feta cheese, this salad is a well-rounded choice.
The addition of fresh spinach contributes vitamins and minerals, enhancing its nutritional profile.
Enjoy this salad knowing that you are indulging in a dish that is both tasty and nourishing.
Refreshing Orzo Spinach Salad
This Orzo Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Spinach is a vibrant blend of Mediterranean flavors. The orzo is cooked until tender and tossed with sun-dried tomatoes to soften them slightly, while fresh spinach wilts gently into the mix. The dish serves 4 and takes about 30 minutes to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like basil or parsley), chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Add Feta: Fold in the crumbled feta cheese and any fresh herbs if using.
- Serve: Enjoy the salad warm or chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 28g