Name: Orange Orzo Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 oz whole wheat orzo pasta; ½ cup raw almonds; 1 cup flat-leaf parsley; ½ cup kalamata olives; ½ cup green onion; ½ cup raisins; ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 tsp orange zest; ¼ cup fresh-squeezed orange juice; ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp white wine vinegar; 1 medium garlic clove; ¼ tsp salt; freshly ground black pepper

This vibrant and refreshing Orange Orzo Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors that is sure to please your palate. The salad is a combination of whole wheat orzo pasta, almonds, parsley, kalamata olives, green onion, raisins, feta, and a tangy orange dressing. It's perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or a unique potluck offering. The citrusy dressing elevates the salad to a new level of deliciousness.

Photos of Orange Orzo Salad Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry items, there may be a few you might need to pick up. Whole wheat orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that you should be able to find in the pasta aisle of your local supermarket. Kalamata olives, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, are known for their robust flavor and can be found in the olive or international foods aisle. Lastly, raw almonds can be found in the nuts section; however, you can also substitute them with other nuts of your preference.

Ingredients for Orange Orzo Salad

Orzo pasta: A small, rice-shaped pasta that adds a delightful texture.

Raw almonds: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

Parsley: Provides a fresh and earthy taste.

Kalamata olives: Brings a savory and slightly fruity flavor.

Green onion: Adds a mild, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor.

Raisins: Contributes a sweet and tangy touch.

Feta cheese: Offers a salty and tangy taste.

Orange zest and juice: Provides a zesty and tangy flavor.

Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds depth and richness.

White wine vinegar: Imparts a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.

Garlic: Gives a spicy and pungent flavor.

Salt and black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor.

One reader, Anabella Heil says:

This orange orzo salad recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The citrusy zest and the crunch of almonds make it a refreshing and satisfying dish. It's a perfect blend of sweet and savory, and the feta adds a delightful creaminess. A must-try for any salad lover!

Anabella Heil

Mastering the Art of Orzo Salad

How to cook orzo pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and add the orzo. Cook until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
How to toast almonds: Toast the almonds in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 5 minutes until fragrant and golden.
How to make the dressing: In a liquid measuring cup or small bowl, combine the orange zest, orange juice, olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and salt. Add ¼ cup of the reserved pasta cooking water and whisk until blended.

How To Make Orange Orzo Salad

Grab a bite of this delectable orzo salad for lunch! It’s loaded with crunchy almonds and savory feta and olives. Whip this up in just under an hour.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Rest Time: 10 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8ozwhole wheat orzo pasta
½cupraw almonds
1cupflat-leaf parsleychopped
½cupKalamata olivespitted, halved
½cupgreen onionchopped
½cupraisinspreferably golden
½cupcrumbled feta cheeseoptional
1tsporange zest
¼: 5px”>¼cupextra-virgin olive oil
2tbspwhite wine vinegar
1medium garlic clovepressed or minced
¼tspsalt
freshly ground black pepperto taste

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
Add the orzo and cook until al dente, according to package directions.
Before draining, reserve roughly ½ cup pasta cooking water.
Drain, then immediately rinse the orzo under cold running water until the orzo is no longer warm. Drain well.
Toast the almonds in a medium skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for 5 minutes until fragrant and turning golden on the edges.
Transfer the almonds to a cutting board and chop them.
In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked orzo, chopped almonds, parsley, olives, green onion, raisins, and feta.
In a liquid measuring cup or small bowl, combine the orange zest, orange juice, olive oil, vinegar, garlic and salt.
Add ¼ cup of the reserved pasta cooking water, and whisk until blended.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Season with pepper to taste.
Let the orzo salad rest for at least 10 minutes.
Season to taste with additional salt if desired, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 384.65kcal
Fat: 19.56g
Saturated Fat: 3.86g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.90g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.84g
Carbohydrates: 44.39g
Fiber: 4.22g
Sugar: 10.35g
Protein: 10.29g
Cholesterol: 11.13mg
Sodium: 300.81mg
Calcium: 142.06mg
Potassium: 377.93mg
Iron: 2.48mg
Vitamin A: 65.34µg
Vitamin C: 21.02mg

Elevate Your Salad with This Simple Trick

Toasting the almonds before adding them to the salad not only enhances their flavor but also gives them a crunchier texture. This contrasts beautifully with the softness of the orzo and the creaminess of the feta cheese. To ensure even toasting, spread the almonds in a single layer on the skillet and stir them frequently. Be careful not to burn them, as they can quickly go from toasted to burnt.

Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Cooks

Prep ahead: Cook the orzo and chop the almonds in advance to save time when assembling the salad.

Use pre-chopped ingredients: Consider using pre-chopped parsley, olives, and green onions to cut down on prep time.

Make extra: Double the recipe and store the extra salad in the fridge for a quick and convenient meal later in the week.

One-pot cooking: Consider using a large pot to cook the orzo and blanch the almonds simultaneously to save time and clean-up.

Multi-task: While the orzo is cooking, prepare the dressing and chop the remaining ingredients to streamline the process.

Substitute Ingredients For Orange Orzo Salad Recipe

whole wheat orzo pasta - Substitute with regular orzo pasta: Whole wheat orzo pasta can be substituted with regular orzo pasta for a lighter texture and flavor.
raw almonds - Substitute with pine nuts: Pine nuts can be used as a substitute for raw almonds to add a similar nutty flavor and crunch to the salad.
flat-leaf parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can be used as a substitute for flat-leaf parsley to add a fresh and slightly citrusy flavor to the salad.
kalamata olives - Substitute with black olives: Black olives can be used as a substitute for kalamata olives to provide a milder and less tangy flavor to the salad.
green onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for green onions to add a mild onion flavor to the salad.
raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can be used as a substitute for raisins to add a sweet and tart flavor to the salad.
feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese can be used as a substitute for feta cheese to provide a tangy and creamy flavor to the salad.
orange zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can be used as a substitute for orange zest to add a citrusy and slightly tart flavor to the salad.
fresh-squeezed orange juice - Substitute with fresh-squeezed lemon juice: Fresh-squeezed lemon juice can be used as a substitute for orange juice to add a tangy and citrusy flavor to the salad.
extra-virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for extra-virgin olive oil to provide a mild and buttery flavor to the salad.
white wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for white wine vinegar to add a slightly sweet and fruity flavor to the salad.
garlic clove - Substitute with shallot: Shallot can be used as a substitute for garlic to provide a mild and sweet onion flavor to the salad.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt to add a slightly briny flavor to the salad.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper to provide a milder and less pungent flavor to the salad.

Elevate Your Presentation Game

Elevate the orzo: Gently mound the orange orzo salad in the center of the plate, using a ring mold for a clean presentation. Ensure the salad is evenly distributed and not too tightly packed.
Garnish with citrus zest: Sprinkle a delicate touch of freshly grated orange zest over the top of the salad for a burst of color and citrus aroma.
Add a drizzle of olive oil: Using a steady hand, drizzle a small amount of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil around the edge of the plate, allowing it to pool slightly at the base of the salad.
Sprinkle with chopped almonds: Carefully sprinkle the chopped almonds over the top of the salad, ensuring an even distribution for added texture and visual appeal.
Finish with a sprinkle of feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad, adding a pop of creamy white against the vibrant colors of the dish.
Garnish with fresh parsley: Place a small sprig of fresh flat-leaf parsley on top of the salad, adding a touch of green for a visually appealing finish.
Serve with a side of kalamata olives: Arrange a small side dish of kalamata olives next to the plated salad, providing an additional element for guests to enjoy.

Essential Tools You'll Need

Large pot: A large pot is essential for boiling the orzo pasta.
Skillet: A skillet is used for toasting the almonds.
Cutting board: A cutting board is used for chopping the toasted almonds.
Liquid measuring cup: A liquid measuring cup is used for accurately measuring and mixing the dressing ingredients.
Whisk: A whisk is used for blending the dressing ingredients.
Large serving bowl: A large serving bowl is used for combining all the salad ingredients and dressing.

Preserving Freshness: Storage and Freezing Tips

Allow the orzo salad to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 4 days.
If you plan to freeze the salad, it's best to do so without the feta cheese and parsley, as these ingredients may not hold up well in the freezer. Transfer the salad to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Freeze the orzo salad for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw the salad in the refrigerator overnight.
Once thawed, add freshly chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese to the salad before serving. If the salad seems a bit dry, you can toss it with a little extra olive oil and orange juice to refresh the flavors.
If you have leftover dressing, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Shake well before using it to re-dress the salad as needed.

Reviving Leftovers: A Quick Guide

To reheat leftover orange orzo salad, start by transferring the desired amount into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the orzo from drying out during the reheating process.
Microwave the salad on high power for 30-second intervals, stirring gently between each interval, until the salad is heated through to your liking. Be careful not to overheat, as this may cause the orzo to become mushy and the vegetables to lose their texture.
Alternatively, you can reheat the orange orzo salad in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or orange juice to the pan to help rehydrate the orzo and prevent sticking. Stir the salad gently as it reheats, until it is warmed through and the liquid has been absorbed.
If the reheated salad seems a bit dry, you can drizzle a small amount of olive oil or fresh orange juice over the top to help revive the flavors and add moisture.
For a crisp texture, you can also reheat the orange orzo salad in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), and spread the salad in a shallow baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the salad is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking time to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the top of the salad to crisp up slightly.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a pinch of salt, a squeeze of fresh orange juice, or a sprinkle of feta cheese to brighten up the flavors after reheating.

Discover a Surprising Fact

The orange orzo salad recipe is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a main course. It's a great source of fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats.

Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is It Possible?

This orange orzo salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like whole wheat orzo, almonds, parsley, and raisins makes it budget-friendly. The versatility of orzo allows for easy customization with seasonal vegetables or protein, adding value to the dish. The estimated cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Is This Orzo Salad Healthy or Not?

This orange orzo salad recipe is a nutritious and well-balanced dish that incorporates several healthy ingredients. The use of whole wheat orzo provides a good source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, while the almonds offer healthy fats and protein. The inclusion of parsley, green onion, and olives adds vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the salad. Additionally, the orange zest and juice provide a burst of vitamin C and a refreshing citrus flavor.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be modified to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of feta cheese to lower the overall saturated fat and sodium content
Opt for low-sodium olives to further decrease the sodium levels
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the salad, such as adding cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or bell peppers, to boost the fiber and nutrient content
Use a lighter hand when adding the olive oil to the dressing, or replace some of it with additional orange juice to cut down on the calorie density

To make this salad even more nutritious and satisfying, consider the following suggestions:

Add a source of lean protein, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas, to make it a complete meal
Incorporate additional whole grains, like quinoa or bulgur, to increase the fiber and protein content
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as mint, basil, or smoked paprika, to enhance the flavors without relying on salt
Serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens to increase the volume and nutrient density of the dish

Why We Love This Orzo Salad Recipe

The orange orzo salad recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of whole wheat orzo, crunchy almonds, briny olives, and sweet raisins creates a satisfying dish. The orange zest and juice add a refreshing citrusy note, while the feta cheese provides a creamy and tangy element. The dressing ties everything together beautifully, making this salad a perfect balance of savory and sweet. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a light lunch or a flavorful side. Overall, this recipe is a winner, offering a delightful culinary experience.

Enhance Your Orange Orzo Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetable Skewers: Create a colorful and flavorful mix of roasted vegetables on skewers to complement the citrusy orzo salad.

Grilled Chicken Breast: Serve up some juicy and tender grilled chicken breast alongside the zesty orange orzo salad for a satisfying and protein-packed meal.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Prepare a refreshing and vibrant fruit salad with a variety of seasonal fruits to balance out the savory flavors of the orzo salad.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Whip up a creamy and comforting tomato basil soup to serve as a warm and comforting accompaniment to the bright and tangy orzo salad.

Lemon Sorbet: End the meal on a light and refreshing note with a scoop of zesty lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate after enjoying the citrusy orzo salad.

Explore These Delightful Orzo Salad Variations

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This hearty salad is packed with roasted vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Mango Chicken Lettuce Wraps: These refreshing lettuce wraps are filled with juicy mango, tender chicken, and a flavorful sauce, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Indulge in this comforting and creamy tomato basil soup, perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a dinner party.

Berry Chia Seed Pudding: Enjoy a guilt-free dessert with this delicious and nutritious berry chia seed pudding, packed with antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.

Crafting a Well-Rounded Menu

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in this creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread. A crowd-pleasing appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Berry Parfait: Layered with creamy yogurt, fresh berries, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Each spoonful offers a refreshing burst of fruity goodness.

Why trust this Orange Orzo Salad Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring wholesome whole wheat orzo pasta and a vibrant mix of orange zest, fresh-squeezed orange juice, and kalamata olives. The addition of raw almonds provides a satisfying crunch, while the crumbled feta cheese adds a creamy and tangy element. The dressing, made with extra-virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, and a hint of garlic, ties everything together beautifully. With a balance of sweet, savory, and citrusy notes, this salad is a trustworthy choice for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Share your thoughts on the Orange Orzo Salad Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this dish even more delicious!

FAQ:

Can I use regular orzo instead of whole wheat orzo?

Yes, you can use regular orzo instead of whole wheat orzo. The flavor and texture may vary slightly, but it will still work well in the recipe.

Can I substitute the almonds with a different type of nut?

Absolutely! You can substitute the almonds with other nuts such as pine nuts, walnuts, or pecans, depending on your preference and dietary restrictions.

How long can I store the orange orzo salad?

The orange orzo salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Can I omit the feta cheese to make the salad dairy-free?

Certainly! If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative such as vegan feta or omit it altogether.

Can I make this salad in advance for a party?

Yes, you can make the orange orzo salad in advance. In fact, the flavors meld together even better after a few hours, so it's a great make-ahead dish for a party or gathering. Just store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.