Greek Orzo And Spinach Salad With Feta And Chickpeas

Greek Orzo & Spinach Salad with Feta & Chickpeas is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that is not only easy to prepare but is also packed with nutrition. This vibrant salad showcases orzo pasta, tender baby spinach, creamy feta cheese, and hearty chickpeas, making it a perfect dish for a light lunch, meal prep, or a side for weekend gatherings. With minimal ingredients, this salad is quickly assembled and can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Greek Orzo & Spinach Salad is loved for its balance of flavors and textures. The orzo offers a satisfying chewiness, while the spinach adds a fresh, vibrant green color and essential vitamins. Chickpeas provide plant-based protein and fiber, making this salad not only a refreshing option but also a filling one. The feta cheese adds a perfectly creamy and tangy bite, and the optional kalamata olives bring an extra depth of flavor. The light dressing made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice enhances the salad’s freshness without overwhelming it. Plus, it’s a breeze to make! All these reasons make this recipe a must-try.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your Greek Orzo & Spinach Salad with Feta & Chickpeas:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups baby spinach, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons kalamata olives, sliced (optional)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: Begin by cooking the orzo pasta. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, and add the orzo. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture, usually around 8-10 minutes.

Step 2: Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander. Rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set the orzo aside to allow the water to fully drain.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped baby spinach, drained chickpeas, crumbled feta cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, and sliced kalamata olives if you are using them. This combination of ingredients will provide a hearty base for your salad.

Step 4: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. This dressing will add a tangy flavor to the salad.

Step 5: Add the cooled orzo to the mixing bowl with the other salad ingredients. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine everything thoroughly. Ensure that each ingredient is evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 6: Your Greek Orzo & Spinach Salad with Feta & Chickpeas is now ready to be served! You can enjoy it immediately or refrigerate it for a while to let the flavors meld together. This salad is fantastic chilled or at room temperature.

Pro Tips for Making Greek Orzo & Spinach Salad

• For added crunch, consider tossing in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds.
• If you prefer more protein, feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn this salad into a full meal.
• Adjust the dressing ingredients according to your taste preferences. A touch of honey can be added for sweetness, or additional herbs can be incorporated for depth.
• Make sure to rinse the orzo well after cooking to prevent it from sticking together.
• This salad holds up well for meal prep, so consider making it at the beginning of the week for easy access to a healthy lunch option.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be prepared in advance. It’s best to keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy.

What can I substitute for orzo pasta?

If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with quinoa, couscous, or even small pasta shapes like ditalini or farfalle.

Is it possible to make this salad vegetarian or vegan?

This salad is naturally vegetarian, and to make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan feta alternative.

Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to include any of your favorite veggies such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or even roasted vegetables for added taste and nutrition.

What should I serve this salad with?

This Greek Orzo & Spinach Salad pairs nicely with grilled meats, seafood, or can be enjoyed as a light standalone dish or side at picnics and barbecues.

Conclusion

Greek Orzo & Spinach Salad with Feta & Chickpeas is the perfect combination of flavors and textures, bringing the essence of Mediterranean cuisine to your table. It is not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to prepare and can be customized to your liking. Whether for a light lunch, dinner side, or packed for a picnic, this salad is sure to be a hit. Enjoy this refreshing dish and savor every bite of its deliciousness.