Tzatziki Orzo Salad with Arugula
Introduction
Tzatziki Orzo Salad with Arugula is a refreshing dish that combines creamy tzatziki flavors with nutritious orzo and fresh greens. This salad is perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or a picnic treat. With its vibrant ingredients and zesty dressing, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great way to enjoy the flavors of traditional tzatziki in a new form. It is light, healthy, and full of fresh ingredients. The combination of creamy Greek yogurt, crunchy cucumbers, and bright herbs makes for a delicious meal that can be enjoyed warm or cold. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require extensive cooking skills.
How to Make Tzatziki Orzo Salad with Arugula
Making Tzatziki Orzo Salad with Arugula is simple and fun. Start by cooking the orzo and preparing the tzatziki dressing. Then, mix everything together and let it chill for a little while. Here’s how you can do it step-by-step.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups fresh arugula
Directions:
- Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, grated garlic, grated cucumber, salt, pepper, and dill to make the tzatziki dressing.
- Add the cooled orzo to the tzatziki dressing and toss until evenly coated.
- Fold in feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, olives, and arugula.
- Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving for the best flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
How to Serve Tzatziki Orzo Salad with Arugula
Tzatziki Orzo Salad can be served cold or at room temperature. Serve it as a main dish for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner. Garnish with extra dill or a slice of lemon for a fresh touch.
How to Store Tzatziki Orzo Salad with Arugula
To store any leftover Tzatziki Orzo Salad, put it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 2-3 days. If you want to keep it fresh, consider storing the ingredients separately and mixing them before serving.
Tips to Make Tzatziki Orzo Salad with Arugula
- Make sure to squeeze out excess water from the grated cucumber to avoid a watery salad.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the dill and arugula.
- Adjust the seasoning to your liking; you may want more lemon or dill.
Variation
You can add other vegetables or protein to the salad. Try adding bell peppers, roasted chickpeas, or grilled chicken for variety.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad can be made a few hours before serving. Just keep it in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld.
2. What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you prefer, you can use goat cheese or omit it altogether for a dairy-free version.
3. Is orzo gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat and is not gluten-free. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free orzo made from rice or other grains.
