Mediterranean Orzo & Spinach Delight
This refreshing Mediterranean Orzo & Spinach Salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to your summer gatherings or picnics. The tender orzo pasta pairs harmoniously with vibrant baby spinach, creamy feta, and crunchy pine nuts, creating a well-balanced dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. Finished with a tangy balsamic dressing, this salad is not only quick to prepare, but it also packs a flavorful punch that will impress your guests. Perfect for meal prep or a healthy side dish, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
N/A
Servings
320
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
uncooked orzo pasta
16 ounces (uncooked)
baby spinach leaves
10 ounces (finely chopped)
crumbled feta cheese
1/2 lb (crumbled)
red onion
1/2 (finely chopped)
pine nuts
3/4 cup (toasted (optional))
kalamata olives
1/2 cup (chopped)
dried basil
1/2 teaspoon (dried)
ground pepper
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
salt
1 pinch (to taste)
olive oil
1/2 cup (extra virgin recommended)
balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup (balsamic)
Instructions
1
1. Begin by bringing a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Add the uncooked orzo pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until it reaches an al dente texture. While cooking, gently stir to prevent sticking.
2
2. Once the orzo is cooked, drain it in a colander and immediately rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps to cool it down before mixing with the other ingredients.
3
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed orzo, finely chopped baby spinach, crumbled feta cheese, chopped red onion, toasted pine nuts, and chopped kalamata olives.
4
4. Sprinkle the mixture with dried basil, ground pepper, and a pinch of salt. Toss everything together gently to ensure even distribution of all ingredients.
5
5. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad, and toss again to coat all ingredients. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6
6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition Information
24g
Fat
19g
Carbs
6g
Protein
2g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Orzo & Spinach Delight?
It is a refreshing pasta salad featuring orzo, baby spinach, feta cheese, pine nuts, and olives tossed in a balsamic dressing.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.
How long does it take to cook the orzo pasta?
The orzo should be cooked in boiling water for 8 to 10 minutes until it reaches an al dente texture.
What type of pasta is used in this dish?
This recipe specifically uses orzo pasta, which is shaped like large grains of rice.
How many calories are in a serving of this salad?
There are approximately 320 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains about 24g of fat.
How much protein does this salad provide?
This salad provides 6g of protein per serving.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 lb of crumbled feta cheese.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of baby spinach?
The recipe calls for fresh baby spinach leaves, which are preferred for texture in a cold salad.
How do I prepare the pine nuts?
The pine nuts should be toasted to enhance their flavor, though this is optional.
What kind of olives are recommended?
The recipe specifies using 1/2 cup of chopped kalamata olives.
What type of dressing is used?
The salad is dressed with a mixture of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
How long should the salad be refrigerated before serving?
It should be covered and refrigerated for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Can I serve this dish warm?
While it can be served at room temperature, it is best served chilled after refrigeration.
What seasonings are used for the flavor?
The salad is seasoned with dried basil, ground pepper, and a pinch of salt.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep as it keeps well and the flavors develop over time.
How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
Gently stir the pasta while it boils and rinse it under cold water immediately after draining.
How much balsamic vinegar is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 11 ingredients in this recipe.
What type of onion is best for this salad?
Finely chopped red onion is used to provide a sharp, colorful contrast.
What is the fiber content?
Each serving contains approximately 2g of fiber.
Can I substitute the olive oil?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor, though other salad oils could be used.
Is this dish gluten-free?
No, orzo is a wheat-based pasta. To make it gluten-free, you would need to use a gluten-free pasta substitute.
What is the carbohydrate count?
The recipe contains 19g of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I add extra protein like chicken?
Yes, adding grilled chicken or chickpeas would be a great way to increase the protein content.
Is this a good dish for summer picnics?
Absolutely, its refreshing Mediterranean flavors make it an ideal choice for summer gatherings.
How should I prepare the spinach?
The baby spinach leaves should be finely chopped before being added to the salad.
What does 'al dente' mean for the orzo?
Al dente means the pasta is cooked so it is still firm to the bite, not mushy.
Can I use fresh basil instead of dried?
Yes, fresh basil can be used; generally, you would use three times the amount of fresh basil as dried.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.