🥗 Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing

🥣 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

🍝 For the Salad

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cucumber, diced

• ¼ red onion, finely sliced

• ½ red bell pepper, diced

• ⅓ cup black or Kalamata olives, sliced

• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped

🍋 For the Lemon Herb Dressing

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for richness)

• Salt & black pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

✅ Step 1: Cook the Orzo

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add orzo and cook for 7–8 minutes until tender.

3. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

4. Drizzle 1 tsp olive oil to prevent sticking.

✅ Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

• Chop tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, olives, and herbs.

• Crumble the feta cheese.

✅ Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, mustard, salt & pepper.

2. Whisk until smooth and emulsified.

✅ Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, add orzo, vegetables, olives, and herbs.

2. Pour the dressing over everything.

3. Toss gently to combine.

4. Add feta on top and mix lightly.

✅ Step 5: Serve

• Serve chilled or at room temperature.

• Add extra lemon or olive oil before serving if desired.

💚 Health & Nutrition Benefits

✅ Healthy Tips

1. Swap orzo with quinoa for a gluten-free, high-protein version.

2. Add grilled chicken or salmon for a full meal.

3. Add chickpeas for plant-based protein.

4. Meal prep friendly — stays fresh for 2–3 days in the fridge.