Description
Learn how to make delicious Perfect Orzo Pasta Salad With Feta And Sun Dried Tomatoes. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (substitute goat cheese if preferred)
- 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained and chopped; use dry-packed rehydrated if needed)
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (substitute lemon juice for a brighter flavor)
- 1 small red onion, finely diced (or substitute with shallots)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (basil or cilantro work well too)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Be careful not to overcook—the pasta should have a slight bite.
- Drain the orzo and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This step is key for a refreshing salad texture, much like the chilled sides my mom would make on hot summer days back home.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This dressing is simple but bright, and it reminds me of the first time I learned how balancing acidity and fat could salvage a dish after a kitchen mishap—like the time I oversalted chili and had to rethink the flavor from scratch.
- Add the cooled orzo to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the dressing.
- Gently fold in the sun-dried tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped parsley. These ingredients add layers of flavor and texture that keep each bite interesting and satisfying.
- Finally, fold in the crumbled feta cheese. The creamy, salty feta is essential—it’s what really brings this salad to life. If you want a bit of extra crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top.
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I often make this ahead of time when hosting friends, and it saves me from last-minute kitchen stress.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Perfect Orzo Pasta Salad With Feta And Sun Dried Tomatoes, recipe, cooking, food
