Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/11 checked
6
servings
12 ounce

orzo pasta

1 lb

spinach leaves

coarsely chopped

0.5 cup

red onion

chopped

0.5 cup

feta cheese

crumbled

10 unit

kalamata olives

pitted & chopped

0.5 cup

pine nuts

toasted

0.25 cup

extra virgin olive oil

3 tbsp

balsamic vinegar

0.5 tsp

salt

1 pinch

fresh ground black pepper

1 pinch

cayenne

optional

Step 1
~3 min

Cook orzo according to package directions.

Step 2
~3 min

Add spinach to the orzo during the last minute of cooking.

Step 3
~3 min

Drain the orzo and spinach and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 4
~3 min

In a mixing bowl, combine red onion, feta cheese, olives, and pine nuts.

Step 5
~3 min

Add the cooked orzo and spinach to the mixing bowl.

Step 6
~3 min

In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).

Step 7
~3 min

Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture.

Step 8
~3 min

Toss to combine all ingredients.

Step 9
~3 min

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 10
~3 min

Serve at room temperature.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

Marinate the orzo salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Add other vegetables such as sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and color.

Use fresh herbs such as basil or oregano for a brighter flavor.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

10 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Can be made 1-2 days in advance.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Low
Smell Intensity
Medium
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a side dish or light lunch.

Pairs well with grilled fish or chicken.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Grilled chicken
Grilled fish
Hummus and pita bread

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Greece

Cultural Significance

Commonly served as part of a meze platter or as a light lunch in Mediterranean countries.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Summer gatherings
Picnics

Occasion Tags

Summer
Picnic
Potluck
Lunch

Popularity Score

75/100

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