Delicious Orzo Salad with Feta and Cherry Tomatoes for Summer Gatherings

Orzo salad with feta and cherry tomatoes is one of my go-to summer dishes.

It’s light fresh and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for picnics barbecues or even a quick weeknight dinner.

The combination of tender orzo pasta with vibrant cherry tomatoes and creamy feta creates a delightful harmony that keeps me coming back for more.

Ingredient List

To make my delicious orzo salad with feta and cherry tomatoes, I gather the following ingredients:

• Orzo Pasta: 1 cup
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint, halved
• Feta Cheese: 1 cup, crumbled
• Cucumber: 1 medium, diced
• Red Onion: 1/4 cup, finely chopped
• Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup, chopped
• Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon

I prefer to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. The orzo provides a perfect base while the cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness.

The feta cheese gives it that creamy texture, and the herbs elevate the flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Orzo
   In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the boiling water and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
   While the orzo cooks, wash and chop the vegetables. Halve 1 pint of cherry tomatoes and dice 1 medium cucumber. Finely chop 1/4 of a red onion. Set the chopped vegetables aside in a large mixing bowl.
3. Mix the Salad Ingredients
   Once the orzo has cooled, add it to the mixing bowl with the vegetables. Crumble 4 ounces of feta cheese over the top. Tear approximately 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves and scatter them in as well.
4. Make the Dressing
   In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
5. Combine Everything
   Pour the dressing over the orzo salad and gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined. Ensure that the feta cheese is evenly distributed and the dressing coats all the vegetables.

Recipe Notes & Variations

When making my Orzo Salad with Feta and Cherry Tomatoes, I love to embrace variations that elevate the flavor and tailor the dish to fit my mood. Here are some of my favorite notes and ideas:

Ingredient Swaps

• Pasta Options: If orzo isn’t your thing, substitute with farro, quinoa, or any small pasta like ditalini or miniature shells.
• Cheese Choices: Feta adds a lovely creaminess, but I’ve also enjoyed this salad with crumbled goat cheese, fresh mozzarella, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan option.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in sliced bell peppers, diced avocados, or grated carrots for added color and crunch. I sometimes add radishes for a peppery bite.

Add-Ins

• Protein Boost: To make it a heartier meal, I often mix in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. These additions pack it with protein, perfect for a filling lunch or dinner.
• Nuts and Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or sunflower seeds adds a delightful crunch and healthy fats to the mix.

Dressing

• Zesty Additions: I love to brighten the dressing by adding a spoonful of Dijon mustard or honey for a hint of sweetness and tang.
• Herb Infusions: Experimenting with fresh herbs can change the entire flavor profile. I’ve found that adding dill or parsley complements the existing flavors beautifully.

• Make-Ahead: This salad keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. I recommend storing it in an airtight container and enjoying it within 3 to 4 days.
• Keep Ingredients Separate: To maintain freshness, I often store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving, especially if I plan on having leftovers.

Serving Suggestions

This orzo salad with feta and cherry tomatoes is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion.

I love to serve it in various ways to enhance both flavor and presentation.

1. Serve as a Side Dish
   I often serve this salad alongside grilled meats such as chicken or lamb. The vibrant flavors and textures complement the savory notes of the grilled dishes beautifully.
2. Make it a Main Course
   For a light yet satisfying meal, I like to add protein directly into the salad. Grilled shrimp or diced grilled chicken work wonders. You can also mix in chickpeas for a vegetarian option that’s hearty and fulfilling.
3. Garnish for Appeal
   A sprinkle of extra feta or additional fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving adds a pop of color and enhances presentation. I love tossing in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch that elevates the texture.
4. Chill and Serve
   This salad is also refreshing when served cold. After making it, I often refrigerate it for a couple of hours before serving. The flavors meld beautifully, and the salad becomes even more inviting.
5. Picnic and Potluck Friendly
   Since this salad holds up well, it’s my go-to for picnics and potlucks. I’ll pack it into a large, sealed container and bring it along for a shareable dish that everyone loves.
6. Wrap it Up
   For a quick lunch, I like to use the orzo salad as a filling for wraps or pita pockets. Paired with a bit of hummus or tzatziki, it creates a flavorful portable meal that’s easy to take on the go.

These serving suggestions make this orzo salad with feta and cherry tomatoes an adaptable and enjoyable dish for any gathering or meal.

Nutrition Information

When preparing my Orzo Salad with Feta and Cherry Tomatoes, I always love to keep track of the nutrition to ensure it fits a balanced meal.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutrition per serving based on the typical ingredients used in this salad.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	10 grams
Carbohydrates	40 grams
Dietary Fiber	3 grams
Sugars	3 grams
Total Fat	14 grams
Saturated Fat	4 grams
Cholesterol	20 mg
Sodium	300 mg

Key Nutritional Benefits

• Carbohydrates: The orzo provides a good source of carbohydrates, making this salad a great energy booster for the day.
• Protein: Feta adds a nice amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
• Fiber: The inclusion of fresh vegetables like cucumber and cherry tomatoes contributes dietary fiber, aiding digestion.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil is a healthy fat source that promotes heart health and keeps you full.

Portion Considerations

I typically suggest a serving size of about 1 cup for this orzo salad. This portion not only satisfies hunger but also provides a colorful array of nutrients.

Depending on your dietary needs, you can adjust the portion size. Pairing it with grilled proteins or incorporating nuts can enhance both the flavor and the nutritional profile.

Conclusion

I absolutely love how this orzo salad with feta and cherry tomatoes brightens up any meal.

Its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors make it a go-to dish for warm days or any gathering.

Whether you’re enjoying it as a side or making it the star of your dinner table, it’s sure to impress.

Don’t hesitate to get creative with the recipe. You can swap in your favorite ingredients or add proteins to make it your own.

I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every delicious bite. Happy cooking!

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