Spinach and Orzo Salad: A Delightful Spinach Orzo Salad Recipe
If you’re looking for a refreshing and flavorful salad, this Spinach and Orzo Salad Recipe is the perfect choice. It’s light, easy to make, and the combination of ingredients will certainly please your palate. On top of that, the health benefits from the nutrient-rich spinach and heart-healthy olive oil make it an ideal addition to any meal plan.
Yield and Duration
This recipe yields 8 servings and has a total time of 1 hour and 20 minutes. It requires 20 minutes of prep time and an additional hour for flavor melding.
Ingredients for the Spinach Orzo Salad Recipe
Here’s everything you need to create this delicious salad:
- Pasta: 1 (16 ounce) package uncooked orzo pasta
- Spinach: 1 (10 ounce) package baby spinach leaves, finely chopped
- Feta cheese: ½ pound crumbled
- Onion: ½ red onion, finely chopped
- Pine nuts: ¾ cup
- Basil: ½ teaspoon dried
- White pepper: ¼ teaspoon ground
- Olive oil: ½ cup
- Balsamic vinegar: ½ cup
Instructions for Preparing Spinach Orzo Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo Pasta
Begin by cooking the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta with cold water. This will help to stop the cooking process and prevent stickiness.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
While the orzo is cooking, take this time to chop the spinach and red onion, if not done already. Make sure the spinach is finely chopped and the onion is sliced into small pieces for ease of mixing.
Step 3: Mix the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked orzo pasta, chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, chopped red onion, and pine nuts. Add the dried basil and ground white pepper for flavor.
Step 4: Create the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Ensure the mixture is well-blended for a smooth dressing.
Step 5: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated. Cover the salad bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld beautifully together.
Healthier Cooking Alternatives
For those seeking a healthier alternative, consider using whole grain orzo pasta, which can provide more fiber and nutrients compared to regular pasta. Additionally, toasting the pine nuts can release more flavor, allowing you to potentially reduce the quantity used while still enjoying their nutty taste.
Why You’ll Love This Spinach Orzo Salad Recipe
This salad is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also perfect for meal prepping. Packed with the fiber and vitamins from spinach, along with the heart-smart olive oil, it’s both nutritious and satisfying. Moreover, the recipe allows room for creative variations, such as adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added freshness.
Try this delightful Spinach and Orzo Salad today. For more nutritious recipes, visit Healthline’s Nutrition Section and Eat Right for more dietary guidance and tips.