As I tossed warm orzo with vibrant baby spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, the kitchen filled with the tangy promise of balsamic vinaigrette. This Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad with Spinach, Feta & Sundried Tomatoes couldn’t be easier to whip up—perfect for those sunlit afternoons when you want something light yet satisfying. Not only is it quick to prepare, but its flavors deepen as it rests, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for busy weeknights or gatherings. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of chewy and creamy textures that will have your friends and family coming back for seconds. Ready to embrace this colorful and refreshing salad that feels like summer in every forkful? Let’s dive in!
Why is this salad a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for any busy schedule.
Flavor Explosion: With the tangy balsamic dressing, chewy sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy feta, every bite delivers a burst of Mediterranean goodness.
Make-Ahead Magic: It’s a make-ahead champion! Simply refrigerate, and it only gets tastier as the flavors meld together.
Versatile Base: Feel free to mix it up—add grilled chicken or roasted veggies for extra heartiness, or switch the cheese for a unique twist!
Crowd-pleasing Appeal: Served cold or at room temperature, it's an inviting addition to any picnic or potluck, promising to be the star of the table!
For something equally delicious on your menu, check out my Chicken Waffle Casserole or consider these refreshing Pesto Chicken Lettuce Wraps for a delightful twist.
Balsamic Orzo Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Orzo – a pasta that cooks quickly (7-9 minutes) and serves as a great base for this salad.
• Baby Spinach – adds freshness and nutrients; substitute with arugula for a spicier kick.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – provide a delightful tangy flavor; opt for those packed in oil for the best texture.
• Feta Cheese – brings creaminess and a salty burst to the dish; crumbled goat cheese can be used as a tasty alternative.
For the Vinaigrette
• Olive Oil – a rich flavoring fat; extra virgin is recommended for a bold taste.
• Balsamic Vinegar – adds necessary acidity to balance the richness; feel free to swap it with red wine vinegar if you prefer.
• Dijon Mustard – offers a zesty flavor and aids in emulsifying the vinaigrette; you can use yellow mustard as an easy substitute.
• Garlic (Minced) – provides a lovely aromatic base for the dressing; omit if you're sensitive to raw garlic.
• Salt & Pepper – essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
This Balsamic Orzo Salad is perfect for quick lunches or potlucks, and the flavors deepen beautifully as it sits!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad with Spinach, Feta & Sundried Tomatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a jar or bowl, combine ⅓ cup of olive oil, ¼ cup of balsamic vinegar, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until the mixture is well blended and emulsified. Set this delicious vinaigrette aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you get started on the orzo.
Step 2: Cook the Orzo
Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 1 cup of orzo and cook for 7 to 9 minutes or just until al dente—tender but still firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and allow it to cool slightly. This warm orzo will later help wilt the spinach when mixed together.
Step 3: Soak Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Take about ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes and chop them into small pieces. Pour hot water over them in a bowl and let them soak for about 5 minutes, which helps to soften their texture. After soaking, drain the tomatoes well, and they are now ready to bring a pop of tanginess to your Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, layer in 4 cups of fresh baby spinach, the cooked orzo, the soaked sun-dried tomatoes, and ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the top, then gently toss the salad together using tongs or a large spoon. The warmth of the orzo will slightly wilt the spinach, creating a delightful and colorful Greek Balsamic Orzo Salad.
Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative and give this salad your personal touch, enhancing both flavors and textures!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute feta with crumbled tofu or vegan cheese to keep it creamy without dairy.
The dressing will still shine through, giving you that satisfying creaminess without the dairy. -
Spicier Spinach: Swap baby spinach for arugula or kale for an extra spicy kick that invigorates the dish.
These greens will add character and depth, resulting in a salad packed with flavor and nutrients. -
Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier salad that transforms this side into a full meal.
These additions elevate the dish, making it perfect for lunch or dinner, and keeping everyone satisfied. -
Olive Twist: Toss in sliced Kalamata or green olives for bursts of briny flavor, complementing the cherry notes of the balsamic.
This addition rounds out the salad beautifully, taking you on a culinary journey through the Mediterranean. -
Nuts & Seeds: Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds to add crunch and richness, enhancing flavor and nutrition.
This unexpected element will surprise your palate and provide a delightful texture variation. -
Zesty Citrus: Add citrus segments, like orange or grapefruit, for a bright contrast to the rich balsamic vinaigrette.
These fruity pops will freshen every bite and create a lovely balance in flavor profiles. -
Herbed Twist: Mix in fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for a burst of freshness that brightens the salad.
These herbs not only elevate the dish but will transport your senses straight to a sunny Mediterranean garden. -
Heat It Up: Incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that will take your salad to the next level.
This subtle heat transforms ordinary into extraordinary, ensuring every bite is an adventure!
If you’re looking for more delicious combinations, consider serving alongside fresh Garlic Parmesan Chicken or delightful Mushroom Chicken Comfort for a well-rounded meal.
What to Serve with Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad
Pair this vibrant salad with delightful dishes to create a memorable meal experience!
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Grilled Lemon Chicken: Tender and juicy, this citrusy chicken complements the tangy notes of the orzo salad beautifully, adding heartiness to your plate. The freshness of lemon brightens each bite, making it a win-win.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies, roasted to perfection, offers a warm contrast to the cool salad. Their caramelized sweetness brings out the deeper flavors in both the salad and the roasted medley.
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Crunchy Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread is irresistibly comforting. Its crunchy texture and aromatic essence pair perfectly with the tenderness of the orzo salad, creating a harmonious balance.
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Greek Yogurt Tzatziki: This creamy and refreshing dip adds a cooling element that beautifully complements the salad's tangy dressing. Use it for dipping fresh veggies or as a topping for grilled meats!
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Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with grains or meats provide a hearty and nutritious side. Their light sweetness echoes the salad's ingredients, creating a lovely flavor profile.
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Pineapple Sage Mocktail: A vibrant, non-alcoholic drink elevates your meal with tropical notes and herbal undertones, refreshing your palate. Its bright flavors are a delightful match for the salad’s tanginess.
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Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses, such as aged cheddar and creamy brie, to enhance the meal's profile. The textures and flavors of different cheeses create a fun and engaging appetizer before savoring the salad.
Enjoy experimenting with these pairings to create a delicious and well-rounded meal!
How to Store and Freeze Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. If you're preparing this Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad ahead of time, keep the spinach separate until serving to maintain crispness.
Freezer: While not recommended for freezing due to potential texture changes in the spinach and feta, you can freeze the orzo and dressing separately for up to 2 months.
Reheating: If you need to reheat any of the orzo, warm it gently in a pan with a splash of water or dressing to retain moisture. Avoid reheating the spinach, as it’s best served fresh.
Serving Tip: For best flavor, allow the salad to come to room temperature before serving, helping those beautiful flavors to shine!
Make Ahead Options
This Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad is perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the vinaigrette and cook the orzo up to 24 hours in advance—just refrigerate them separately. The sun-dried tomatoes can be soaked and chopped a day ahead as well. To ensure optimal freshness, keep the baby spinach separate until just before serving, as this will maintain its crispness. When you're ready to enjoy the salad, simply combine everything in a large bowl, drizzle with the vinaigrette, and toss gently until mixed. This way, you’ll have a vibrant, delicious salad that tastes just as delightful with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad
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Prep Ahead: Make the vinaigrette in advance and store it in the fridge to save time when assembling your Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad.
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Perfect Orzo: Avoid overcooking the orzo. It should be al dente for the best texture, ensuring it doesn’t turn mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh baby spinach to maintain its crispness. If meal prepping, keep the spinach separate until just before serving for the best outcome.
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Flavor Depth: Serve the salad at room temperature or chilled. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste experience.
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Customizable: Don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite veggies or proteins, like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables, to make this salad your own while still keeping it quick and easy to prepare.
Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad with Spinach, Feta & Sundried Tomatoes Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting orzo?
When choosing orzo, look for a pasta that is smooth and free of any cracks. A good quality brand will yield the best texture after cooking. It should cook quickly, typically in 7-9 minutes, and have a firm yet tender bite when done.
How can I store Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad?
Absolutely! Store your Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It's best to keep the spinach separate until just before serving to maintain its crispness. This salad is a make-ahead favorite that does really well!
Can I freeze Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad?
While I don’t recommend freezing the entire salad due to potential texture changes in the spinach and feta, you can freeze the orzo and dressing separately. Place the cooked orzo in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat gently when you're ready to enjoy.
What if my salad is too soggy?
If you find that your salad is soggy, the orzo may have absorbed too much dressing. To remedy this, try adding more fresh ingredients like additional baby spinach, a sprinkle of feta, or even some crunchy nuts to absorb moisture and balance the flavors. Toss gently to incorporate.
Can I make this salad vegan-friendly?
Very! To make a vegan version of the Classic Balsamic Orzo Salad, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan feta alternative. You can also boost the protein by adding chickpeas or diced avocado, making it a delicious plant-based meal!
What dietary restrictions should I consider?
When serving this salad, be mindful of those with nut allergies if you decide to add nuts. The salad contains dairy from the feta cheese, so opt for vegan cheese alternatives for a dairy-free option. Always check for allergies with your guests to ensure everyone enjoys this flavorful dish!
Juicy Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemony Tzatziki Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add chicken strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and juices run clear.
- In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
- Place grilled chicken in pita breads and top with tzatziki sauce, lettuce, tomato, and red onion.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Greek Chicken Gyros!
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