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–+ servings

Light Orzo Olive Salad

A refreshing dish made with whole wheat orzo pasta, oil-cured olives, green onions, and fresh parsley, tossed together with olive oil and vinegar for a burst of flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 cups whole wheat orzo A nutritious base packed with fiber.
  • 0.75 cup chopped oil-cured olives Adds a savory depth of flavor.
  • 3 large green onions Sliced thinly, provides freshness and crunch.
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil Enhances richness and aids in flavor blending.
  • to taste salt Essential for seasoning and balance.
  • to taste pepper Essential for seasoning and balance.
  • 0.5 cup freshly chopped parsley Brightens the dish with color and freshness.
  • dash white grape juice vinegar Introduces a subtle sweetness and acidity.
  • 10 grape tomatoes Cut in half, offers juiciness and extra nutrients (optional).
  • 0.5 cup crumbled feta cheese Adds creaminess and tanginess to the salad (optional).

Method
 

  1. Cook the Orzo: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander, rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process, and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, pepper, and a dash of white grape juice vinegar until combined. This dressing will enhance the salad's flavors while keeping it light and refreshing.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo with chopped olives, sliced green onions, parsley, and optional grape tomatoes if desired. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Add Feta Cheese (Optional): If you're adding feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the salad after tossing all other ingredients together. Gently mix it in without breaking up the cheese too much to maintain its lovely texture.
  5. Chill Before Serving: For optimal flavor development, cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it into an airtight container before refrigerating for at least one hour. This step allows all ingredients to meld beautifully together.
  6. Serve & Enjoy: Once chilled, give your Light Orzo Olive Salad another gentle toss before serving it on plates or bowls. Enjoy this vibrant dish as a refreshing lunch option or as an accompaniment to any main course!

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15g

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