Italian orzo pasta salad is a delicious and healthy side dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. It is a classic Italian dish that is made with orzo, a small pasta shaped like a grain of rice, and is full of flavor and texture. This salad is packed with vegetables, herbs, and Italian dressing, creating a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for summertime. Whether you are looking for a quick side dish or something special for a family dinner, this Italian orzo pasta salad is sure to be a hit.
What is Orzo?
Orzo is a small pasta that is shaped like a grain of rice. It is made from durum wheat semolina and is a traditional pasta in many Italian dishes. Orzo has a mild flavor that pairs well with other ingredients. It is also very versatile and can be used in salads, soups, and other dishes. Orzo is a great way to add a little extra flavor to your dish without overpowering it.
Ingredients
For this Italian orzo pasta salad, you will need orzo, olive oil, garlic, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, red onion, fresh parsley, fresh basil, black olives, feta cheese, and Italian dressing. You can also add other vegetables if desired, such as bell peppers or artichoke hearts. The feta cheese can be omitted if desired, or replaced with another cheese, such as mozzarella.
Instructions
Begin by cooking the orzo according to package instructions. When the orzo is done, drain and rinse it with cold water. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, olive oil, garlic, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, red onion, parsley, basil, black olives, and feta cheese. Mix everything together until it is well combined. Add the Italian dressing and mix again until all of the ingredients are evenly coated. Serve the salad cold or at room temperature.
Tips and Variations
This salad can be served as a side dish or a main course. To make it a complete meal, add cooked chicken or shrimp to the salad. You can also add cooked beans or other vegetables for extra flavor and texture. For a vegan version of the salad, omit the feta cheese. To give the salad an extra kick of flavor, add a tablespoon of capers or anchovies. For a creamier version, add a few tablespoons of mayonnaise to the dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is orzo?
Orzo is a small pasta that is shaped like a grain of rice and is made from durum wheat semolina. It is very versatile and can be used in salads, soups, and other dishes.
What ingredients are needed for an Italian orzo pasta salad?
For this Italian orzo pasta salad, you will need orzo, olive oil, garlic, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, red onion, fresh parsley, fresh basil, black olives, feta cheese, and Italian dressing.
How do you make Italian orzo pasta salad?
Begin by cooking the orzo according to package instructions. When the orzo is done, drain and rinse it with cold water. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, olive oil, garlic, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, red onion, parsley, basil, black olives, and feta cheese. Mix everything together until it is well combined. Add the Italian dressing and mix again until all of the ingredients are evenly coated. Serve the salad cold or at room temperature.
What variations can be made to the salad?
This salad can be served as a side dish or a main course. To make it a complete meal, add cooked chicken or shrimp to the salad. You can also add cooked beans or other vegetables for extra flavor and texture. For a vegan version of the salad, omit the feta cheese. To give the salad an extra kick of flavor, add a tablespoon of capers or anchovies. For a creamier version, add a few tablespoons of mayonnaise to the dressing.
Can this salad be served cold or at room temperature?
This Italian orzo pasta salad can be served either cold or at room temperature.
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