Feta and Cranberry Orzo with Lemon Vinaigrette
Introduction
Feta and Cranberry Orzo with Lemon Vinaigrette is a light and refreshing dish that combines the chewy texture of orzo pasta with the sweet tang of cranberries and the creamy richness of feta cheese. Topped with a bright and zesty lemon vinaigrette, this dish is perfect as a side or a main course. It’s a great option for lunch, picnics, or a light dinner.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It takes just a short time to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of flavors and textures will please your taste buds and impress your family or guests. Plus, it involves healthy ingredients like whole grains, nuts, and fresh herbs, making it a nutritious choice.
How to Make Feta and Cranberry Orzo
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or arugula)
- 2 tablespoons toasted slivered almonds (optional)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook orzo in salted water according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a small bowl, whisk together all vinaigrette ingredients until emulsified.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, cranberries, feta, parsley, and almonds.
- Pour vinaigrette over salad and toss gently to coat.
- Chill or serve at room temperature.
How to Serve Feta and Cranberry Orzo
You can serve this dish chilled or at room temperature. It works well as a side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, add your favorite protein like grilled shrimp or chicken.
How to Store Feta and Cranberry Orzo
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad will stay fresh for about 3 days. If you have added the nuts, you might want to add them fresh when serving for added crunch.
Tips to Make Feta and Cranberry Orzo
- Be sure to rinse the orzo in cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and keep it from becoming mushy.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey/maple syrup in the vinaigrette.
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped green onions or bell peppers.
Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different ingredients. You could use spinach instead of parsley, incorporate roasted vegetables, or substitute goat cheese for feta. Another option is to add grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is great made ahead and can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 days.
3. Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes! You can omit the feta and use a vegan cheese alternative or simply skip the cheese entirely for a vegan version.
