Spinach Greek Orzo Salad

This Spinach Greek Orzo Salad is light, refreshing, and full of vibrant Mediterranean flavors. It’s an easy-to-make dish with tender orzo, fresh spinach, crisp veggies, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a simple lemony dressing. Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or even meal prep.

Prep Time: 20 mins

Additional Time: 1 hr

Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins

Servings: 8

Yield: 8 servings

Author: Siddhanath Metkari

Recipe Tools You Use:

1. Garlic Press
2. Wire whisk
3. a big pot
4. Sharp knife
5. bowl
6. skillet
7. kitchen tongs

Spinach Greek Orzo Salad Recipe Video:

Ingredients:

1. 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
2. 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
3. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
4. 1 cucumber, diced
5. 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
6. 1/2 cup kalamata olives, halved
7. 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
8. 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
9. 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (optional)

For the Dressing:

1. 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2. 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3. 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
4. 1 garlic clove, minced
5. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
6. Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions (about 7-9 minutes), until tender but still firm to the bite. Drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside to dry slightly.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies and Spinach

While the orzo is cooling, chop the spinach, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion. Place them in a big mixing bowl and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a tiny bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and dried oregano, whisking them together. Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Let the dressing sit for a bit so the flavors can blend nicely.

Step 4: Combine the Salad

In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with the diced spinach, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and kalamata olives. Make sure everything is well mixed.

Step 5: Add the Dressing

Pour the dressing over the orzo and veggie mixture, tossing everything together to ensure its evenly coated. The fresh lemony dressing will soak into the orzo, bringing all the flavors together.

Step 6: Add Feta and Herbs

Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and sprinkle with the chopped parsley and dill (if using). The feta brings a rich, tangy flavor that complements the vibrant, fresh vegetables beautifully.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Give the salad a taste and tweak the seasoning if necessary. You can add more lemon juice for a brighter flavor or a pinch more salt and pepper to enhance the taste.

Step 8: Serve or Chill

You can serve this salad right away at room temperature, but for best results, let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop. Make sure to give it a nice toss before you serve it up.

Tips:

• Make It Vegan: Skip the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative to make this salad dairy-free.
• Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make this a heartier main dish.
• Switch Up the Greens: Feel free to swap the spinach with arugula or mixed greens for a different texture.
• Make Ahead: This salad holds up well in the fridge for 2-3 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Just store the dressing separately and toss it in before serving for the freshest taste.

This Spinach Greek Orzo Salad is light, fresh, and full of Mediterranean goodness. It’s a perfect, easy-to-make dish that’s great for any occasion, from lunches to picnics.

Spinach Greek Orzo Salad Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

Health Benefits:

1. Rich in Fiber: Spinach, cucumber, and orzo provide fiber for digestive health.
2. Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats that support heart health.
3. Antioxidant-Rich: Spinach, tomatoes, and parsley are loaded with antioxidants that help protect against cell damage.
4. Bone Health: Feta cheese adds calcium and phosphorus, which are vital for strong bones.
5. Boosts Immune System: The vitamin C from lemon juice, parsley, and spinach supports immune function.
6. Supports Hydration: Cucumber and spinach have high water content, helping you stay hydrated.
7. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Garlic and olive oil are known for their anti-inflammatory effects.
8. Promotes Healthy Skin: Spinach and olive oil provide vitamin E, beneficial for skin health.
9. Good Source of Iron: Spinach and orzo contain iron, important for oxygen transport in the blood.
10. Regulates Blood Sugar: The fiber and healthy fats help in stabilizing blood sugar levels, making it a balanced choice for meals.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Dressing: For the best freshness, store the dressing separately and mix it with the salad just before serving.

Reheat & Reuse Instructions:

Reheating:

• This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is required.

Reuse Ideas:

• Wrap or Pita Filling: Use the salad as a filling in a wrap or pita bread for a quick and healthy lunch.
• Add Protein: Stir in leftover grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to turn it into a heartier meal.
• Bowl Upgrade: Serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens or quinoa for a nutrient-packed grain bowl.

This Spinach Greek Orzo Salad is light, refreshing, and full of Mediterranean flavors, making it perfect for meal prep, a quick side dish, or a light and satisfying main course.

Orzo salad variations?

Here are a few delicious orzo salad variations you can try:

• Mediterranean Orzo Salad

This classic variation includes ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, red onion, and feta cheese. Toss everything with a lemon vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano for a refreshing, tangy flavor.

• Lemon Basil Orzo Salad

Combine cooked orzo with fresh basil, spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Dress it with a zesty lemon vinaigrette and a hint of garlic for a light, fresh dish perfect for summer.

• Orzo Salad with Grilled Vegetables

Grill vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions, then mix them with orzo, arugula, and goat cheese. Add a balsamic vinaigrette for a smoky, sweet flavor that balances out the creaminess of the cheese.

• Orzo Pesto Salad

Toss orzo with homemade or store-bought pesto, fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and toasted pine nuts. This vibrant green salad is rich and flavorful, ideal for a quick, satisfying meal.

• Orzo Salad with Shrimp and Avocado

Cook shrimp with garlic and olive oil, then mix with orzo, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and fresh cilantro. Dress it with a lime vinaigrette for a creamy, citrusy twist that’s both light and filling.

• Mexican Orzo Salad

Combine orzo with black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Add diced avocado and a cumin-lime dressing to bring in Mexican-inspired flavors for a vibrant and hearty salad.

• Greek Orzo Salad with Chicken

Add grilled chicken to a traditional Greek orzo salad with feta, olives, cucumbers, and red onion. This variation makes the dish more filling and perfect as a main course.

• Orzo Salad with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Toss orzo with fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta, and toasted almonds. Dress it with a light balsamic vinaigrette for a sweet and tangy flavor combination.

These orzo salad variations are super customizable, making them a great base for whatever flavors and ingredients you enjoy.

FAQ’s

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