# Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Mediterranean Orzo Salad features orzo paired with an assortment of Mediterranean vegetables and a straightforward fresh dressing. This dish works well as a vegetarian meal or as an accompaniment to grilled chicken or shrimp.
## Easy Mediterranean Orzo Salad
### What is Orzo?
Orzo is a petite rice-shaped pasta that offers versatility; it can be utilized in soups, served as a warm side, or transformed into a salad like this Mediterranean variant.
**Key Ingredients:**
– **Veggies:** Cucumbers, tomatoes, bell pepper, and artichokes
– **Bold Flavors:** Crumbled feta and green or red onion
Feel free to include or switch out other vegetables, such as drained chickpeas or fresh spinach leaves.
## Steps to Prepare Orzo Salad
1. **Boil:** Prepare the orzo following the package instructions.
2. **Prep:** While the orzo is cooking, prepare all the vegetables and chop the artichokes.
3. **Assemble:** Mix orzo with chopped and sliced vegetables and artichoke hearts. Drizzle in the dressing and toss to combine.
## Dressing for Mediterranean Orzo Salad
The dressing for this dish is very straightforward; there’s no need to blend it in a separate bowl. Simply add it straight to the salad and toss to coat. You can also substitute it with any vinaigrette or bottled Greek dressing if desired.
## Additional Fresh Simple Sides
### Recipe Overview
– **Servings:** 8
– **Prep Time:** 15 minutes
– **Cook Time:** 10 minutes
– **Total Time:** 25 minutes
### Ingredients
**For the Dressing:**
– Olive oil
– Lemon juice
– Red wine vinegar
– Dried dill
– Garlic powder
– Salt
### Instructions
1. Boil orzo in salted water according to package directions. Drain thoroughly and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, chop the vegetables. Drain the artichokes well and cut into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, mix the orzo, cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, and green onions.
4. Incorporate the dressing ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried dill, garlic powder, and salt. Toss thoroughly to coat.
5. If desired, add feta cheese and parsley. Gently mix and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
### Optional Additions
– Kalamata or black olives
– Red onion
### Nutrition Information (per serving)
– **Calories:** 184
– **Carbohydrates:** 24g
– **Protein:** 5g
– **Fat:** 7g
– **Sodium:** 232mg
– **Fiber:** 2g
This Mediterranean Orzo Salad serves as a refreshing and healthful choice that is simple to make and ideal for any gathering. Savor it as a dish on its own or as a side to your favorite grilled proteins.