Delicious Greek Orzo Salad with Grilled Zucchini

Why Choose Orzo for Your Salad?

Orzo, a type of pasta shaped like a large grain of rice, is an excellent base for salads due to its unique texture and ability to absorb flavors. When added to a salad, orzo not only enhances the dish s heartiness but also provides a delightful chewiness that complements fresh vegetables and tangy dressings. Its versatility makes it an ideal ingredient for various cuisines, especially in Mediterranean dishes where it pairs beautifully with ingredients like feta cheese, olives, and fresh herbs.

Grilling Zucchini: A Flavorful Technique

Grilling zucchini is one of the best ways to enhance its natural sweetness and add a smoky flavor that elevates any dish. When grilled, zucchini becomes tender and caramelized, which contrasts wonderfully with the fresh ingredients in this Greek orzo salad. To achieve the best results, it s crucial to slice the zucchini evenly and ensure your grill is hot before placing the vegetables on it. This technique not only retains the nutrients of the zucchini but also brings out its vibrant color, making your salad visually appealing.

Customizing Your Greek Orzo Salad

This Greek orzo salad is highly customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs. For instance, if you want to add some protein, consider including grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. You can also experiment with different vegetables such as bell peppers, radishes, or even artichoke hearts to add variety to your dish. If you re looking for a vegan option, simply omit the feta cheese and replace it with avocado or a vegan cheese alternative. The possibilities are endless, making this salad a fantastic option for any gathering or meal prep.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

The ingredients in this Greek orzo salad not only contribute to its delicious taste but also pack a nutritional punch. Orzo is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy without the crash associated with refined sugars. Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and immune function. The addition of feta cheese introduces calcium and protein, while kalamata olives contribute healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health. Together, these ingredients create a dish that is not only satisfying but also nourishing.

Perfect Pairings for Your Salad

This Greek orzo salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your meal planning. For a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal, serve it alongside grilled lamb chops or roasted chicken marinated in lemon and herbs. Alternatively, for a light lunch, enjoy it with a bowl of classic Greek tzatziki and pita bread. The salad also makes an excellent side dish for barbecues and picnics, where its flavors can shine against grilled meats and other summer fare.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers after making this refreshing orzo salad, you re in luck! The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. However, if you plan to keep it for later, consider storing the dressing separately to maintain the freshness of the vegetables. Just give it a good toss before serving, and you ll have a delicious, quick meal ready to go at any time!

This Greek orzo salad is a fun twist on the classic recipe, incorporating orzo pasta and grilled zucchini. Perfect for summer gatherings!

Ingredients

• 1/2 lbs orzo
• 1 small zucchini (or 6-8 baby zucchinis)
• 100g (1 cup) cherry tomatoes (mixed colors if possible)
• 100g (1/3 cup) feta cheese (crumbled)
• 3 tbsp chives (sliced)
• 2 tbsp fresh mint (chopped)
• 4 tbsp (1/4 cup) kalamata olives
• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar (for dressing)
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for dressing)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano (for dressing)
• 1 clove garlic (small, crushed, for dressing)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. In a mason jar, combine the dressing ingredients: white wine vinegar, olive oil, dried oregano, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper. Put the lid on and shake well to combine.
2. Cook the orzo in a pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions.
3. While the orzo cooks, slice the zucchini in half lengthwise (or into 1-inch thick slices if using a regular zucchini) and grill for about 3 minutes on each side until tender.
4. Drain the orzo and immediately toss it with the dressing while it s still hot. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
5. Once cooled, add the grilled zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, sliced chives, chopped mint, and olives to the orzo. Gently toss to combine.
6. Season with additional salt if needed and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled as a side dish or as a light vegetarian main course.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 314 kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Sodium: 8mg
Potassium: 254mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Vitamin A: 230 IU
Vitamin C: 10.6mg
Calcium: 20mg
Iron: 1mg