The traditional Greek salad, also known as “Horiatiki,” is a culinary masterpiece that celebrates the vibrant flavours of Mediterranean cuisine. With its simple yet delicious combination of fresh vegetables, soft feta cheese, and aromatic herbs, it’s no wonder this iconic dish has stood the test of time.
The Beauty of Orzo Pasta Salad
Orzo pasta, often called “rice-shaped pasta,” hails from Italy, where it’s a staple in many dishes like soups, stews, or one-pot casseroles.
In the World of salads, orzo pasta salad stands out as a delicious alternative. With its small, rice-shaped appearance, orzo pasta provides a unique texture and versatility to the classic Greek salad.
Imagine a colourful medley of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions mixed with savoury feta cheese and briny olives, all tossed with cooked orzo pasta. This Greek salad is sure to transport you to the sunny shores of Greece with every bite.
Ingredients Required
The beauty of the Greek salad lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients.
Greek Salad Dressing
A well-balanced dressing can take an orzo pasta salad from ordinary to extraordinary. The key is to balance the flavours and enhance the overall dish. Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried oregano to create a zesty dressing. Use this classic vinaigrette to flavour a variety of salad recipes from my collection.
How To Make
Step 1) Start by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Transfer to a colander, drain the water, rinse with cold water, and allow the pasta to cool completely. Step 2) Toss the cooked orzo with chopped ingredients in a mixing bowl. Step 3) In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, garlic, and pepper to create the salad dressing. Step 4) Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat evenly. Step 5) Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the salad. Garnish with fresh parsley or mint. Step 6) Allow the flavours to meld together in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving, and voila! You have a refreshing orzo pasta salad ready to enjoy.
Serving Suggestion
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply enjoying a light summer lunch, orzo pasta salad is a versatile dish that suits any occasion. Its vibrant colours and fresh flavours make it a crowd-pleaser. Serve it as a refreshing side dish or a satisfying main course, — either way, you won’t be disappointed!
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