Description
- Spinach and orzo salad blends feta, olives, and fresh greens into a bold Mediterranean-inspired dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
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8 ounces orzo pasta
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Salt, for boiling water
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1/4 cup pine nuts
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6 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
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1/2 cup pitted and chopped Kalamata olives (about 20 olives)
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4 ounces baby spinach
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1/2 cup chopped red onion (about half a medium onion)
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
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1 tablespoon lemon juice (or white vinegar)
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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Pinch of dried basil
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Pinch of dried tarragon
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Cook the orzo:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook uncovered on high for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool. -
Toast the pine nuts:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast pine nuts, stirring often, until lightly browned. Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning. -
Make spinach purée:
Blend half of the spinach with 1 tablespoon of olive oil until smooth. In a large bowl, toss the cooled orzo with this spinach mixture until evenly coated. -
Combine salad ingredients:
Roughly chop the remaining spinach. Add it to the bowl with the orzo, along with chopped red onion, crumbled feta, toasted pine nuts, and olives. Mix gently. -
Make the dressing:
In a small jar or bowl, mix the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, dried basil, and tarragon. Shake or whisk until well combined. -
Dress the salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad and mix gently to combine all ingredients evenly. -
Chill and serve:
Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Pasta and Grain Salads
- Method: Boiling, Blending, Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired