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Spinach and orzo salad in serving bowl

Spinach and Orzo Salad: A Flavor-Packed Vegetarian Favorite


  • Author: Cindy
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

  • Spinach and orzo salad blends feta, olives, and fresh greens into a bold Mediterranean-inspired dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces orzo pasta

  • Salt, for boiling water

  • 1/4 cup pine nuts

  • 6 ounces feta cheese, crumbled

  • 1/2 cup pitted and chopped Kalamata olives (about 20 olives)

  • 4 ounces baby spinach

  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion (about half a medium onion)

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or white vinegar)

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • Pinch of dried basil

  • Pinch of dried tarragon

  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste


Instructions

  • 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