Pesto orzo salad with sun-dried tomatoes is the perfect dish to celebrate the freshness of spring. With its vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors, this salad offers a delightful mix of creamy pesto and tender orzo that dances on your palate. Whether you’re enjoying a sunny picnic or hosting a casual gathering, this dish is easy to whip up and is sure to impress your guests. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for an irresistible treat!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Pesto Orzo Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A Refreshing Spring Dish
This pesto orzo salad is packed with bright, fresh ingredients that scream spring. The combination of juicy sun-dried tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and peppery arugula creates a refreshing bite that’s both satisfying and light.
Perfect for Picnics and Gatherings
Not only is this salad tasty, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Bring it along to potlucks, BBQs, or a picnic in the park. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead and enjoyed at your leisure.
Ingredients for Pesto Orzo Salad
Key Ingredients Overview
- 6 oz orzo pasta (1 cup uncooked, can substitute for gluten-free pasta)
- 3 heaping tbsp pesto (dairy-free if vegan)
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cucumber (diced)
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (julienne, in oil)
- 1/3 cup feta (dairy-free if vegan)
- 1 cup arugula
- 1 cup chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- 2-3 tbsp parsley (chopped)
- 1/2 lemon (juiced)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Substitutions for Dietary Preferences
If you need to accommodate dietary restrictions, you can easily swap out ingredients. Use gluten-free pasta for orzo, vegan pesto for the classic version, and feel free to replace feta with a dairy-free alternative.
How to Make Pesto Orzo Salad
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cook the orzo according to package directions until al dente.
- While the orzo cooks, chop the cucumber and parsley.
- After cooking, rinse the orzo under cold water to cool it down.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked orzo with pesto, olive oil, diced cucumber, sun-dried tomatoes, chickpeas, feta, parsley, arugula, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to chill.
Tips for Mixing and Serving
Make sure to mix the salad gently to avoid breaking the orzo and feta. If you’re serving it later, a drizzle of olive oil before serving can help keep everything fresh and vibrant.
Variations and Customizations
Ingredient Swaps
This salad is highly customizable. Substitute sun-dried tomatoes with fresh sliced tomatoes for a juicy alternative, or use fresh basil instead of parsley for a fragrant twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding nuts for extra crunch!
Adding Extra Protein and Vegetables
To boost the protein content, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. You can also throw in various vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
Storage Tips for Pesto Orzo Salad
Best Practices for Keeping Fresh
Store your pesto orzo salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness. This dish can last up to five days in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep.
How Long It Lasts in the Fridge
Enjoy your salad within five days for the best flavor and texture. However, it’s best not to freeze it, as the pasta and dressing may separate upon thawing.
What to Serve with Pesto Orzo Salad
Complementary Dishes
Pair this salad with grilled vegetables, garlic bread, or a refreshing fruit salad for a complete meal. It also complements roasted meats beautifully!
Making It a Complete Meal
To make this pesto orzo salad a complete meal, add a protein source like grilled chicken or chickpeas. The creamy pesto and vibrant ingredients will elevate any protein choice!
FAQs
Can I serve orzo salad cold?
Yes, pesto orzo salad can be served cold and is actually very refreshing when chilled.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this salad.
Is pesto orzo salad good for meal prep?
Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to five days.
Can I add vegetables or cheese?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or cheese to customize the salad.
How long does orzo salad last in the fridge?
The orzo salad can last up to five days in the refrigerator when stored properly.
More Delicious Recipes to Try Next
- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
- Garlic Butter Lemon Orzo
- Parmesan Orzo and Peas
- Italian Grinder Pasta Salad
- Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Conclusion
This pesto orzo salad with sun-dried tomatoes brings a burst of flavor and freshness, making it an ideal choice for any spring gathering. For more delicious ideas, check out our recipes on Pinterest for inspiration and tips. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!
Easy Pesto Orzo Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Equipment
- pot
- Large bowl
- cutting board
- knife
Ingredients
- 6 oz orzo pasta can substitute for gluten-free pasta
- 3 tbsp pesto dairy-free if vegan
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 unit cucumber diced
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes julienne, in oil
- 1/3 cup feta dairy-free if vegan
- 1 cup arugula
- 1 cup chickpeas drained and rinsed
- 2-3 tbsp parsley chopped
- 1/2 unit lemon juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the orzo according to package directions until al dente, then rinse under cold water.
- Chop the cucumber and parsley while the orzo cooks.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo with pesto, olive oil, cucumber, sun-dried tomatoes, chickpeas, feta, parsley, arugula, and lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately or chill for an hour.