Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Power Bowl

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional additions: Grilled chicken, chickpeas, cucumber, spinach

Step-by-Step

1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package directions.

2. While the orzo is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Halve the cherry tomatoes, crumble the feta cheese, halve the Kalamata olives, and thinly slice the red onion.

3. Once the orzo is cooked, drain it well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, red onion, and chopped basil.

5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

6. Pour the dressing over the orzo salad and toss gently to combine.

7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your preference.

8. If desired, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, cucumber, or spinach for extra protein and nutrients.

9. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for later. This salad is delicious served cold or at room temperature.

10. Divide into individual bowls and enjoy your Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Power Bowl!

Why You’ll Love This Orzo Salad

This Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Power Bowl isn’t just another salad. It’s a burst of Mediterranean flavor packed with healthy ingredients and textures that will keep you coming back for more. Let’s explore what makes this dish so special.

A Symphony of Flavors

The combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, salty feta cheese, and briny Kalamata olives creates a flavor profile that is both complex and incredibly satisfying.

The freshness of the basil and the zing of lemon juice perfectly balance the richness of the olive oil and the slight sharpness of the red onion. It’s a true culinary experience.

Customizable to Your Preferences

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your dietary needs and taste preferences.

Adding grilled chicken or chickpeas turns it into a protein-packed powerhouse, while including cucumber or spinach boosts the nutritional value. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables and herbs.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This orzo salad is an excellent choice for meal prepping. It holds up well in the refrigerator and actually tastes better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together.

Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. It’s a healthy and convenient way to stay on track with your eating goals.

Nutritional Benefits

This Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Power Bowl is not only delicious but also provides a wealth of essential nutrients. It’s a wholesome and satisfying meal that supports your overall well-being.

A Good Source of Protein

The feta cheese and optional additions like grilled chicken or chickpeas contribute significant amounts of protein to this salad.

Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Cherry tomatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, which are powerful antioxidants that protect your cells from damage.

Kalamata olives are a good source of healthy fats and iron, while red onion provides quercetin, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.

Healthy Fats for Heart Health

Olive oil is a staple of the Mediterranean diet and is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health.

These healthy fats help to lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Salad

To ensure your Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Power Bowl is a success, here are some helpful tips and tricks.

Choosing the Right Orzo

Opt for a high-quality orzo pasta that will hold its shape well during cooking. Avoid overcooking the orzo, as it can become mushy.

Rinsing the cooked orzo with cold water is crucial for stopping the cooking process and preventing it from sticking together.

Selecting Fresh Ingredients

Use the freshest ingredients possible for the best flavor. Look for ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes, high-quality feta cheese, and plump Kalamata olives.

Fresh basil leaves add a bright and aromatic touch to the salad. Chop them just before adding to prevent them from wilting.

Making the Perfect Dressing

Whisk the dressing ingredients together thoroughly to ensure they are well combined.

Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You may want to add more lemon juice for extra tang or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.

Variations and Adaptations

This Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Power Bowl can be easily adapted to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Get creative and experiment with different ingredients and flavors.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the grilled chicken or use plant-based protein alternatives.

For a vegan version, substitute the feta cheese with a vegan feta alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Gluten-Free Adaptations

Use gluten-free orzo pasta to make this salad suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

There are many high-quality gluten-free orzo options available in most grocery stores.

Adding More Vegetables

Feel free to add other vegetables to this salad, such as cucumber, bell peppers, or zucchini.

These additions will not only boost the nutritional value but also add extra flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Power Bowl is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. It’s also easy to store and enjoy later.

Perfect for Lunch or Dinner

Enjoy this salad as a light and refreshing lunch or a satisfying dinner. It’s a great option for busy weeknights.

Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete and balanced meal.

Ideal for Potlucks and Picnics

This salad is a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and other gatherings.

It travels well and can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for entertaining.

Proper Storage Techniques

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.

The flavors will meld together even more as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, the flavors meld together even more as it sits in the refrigerator. You can prepare it up to 2-3 days in advance.

Can I freeze this orzo salad?

Freezing is not recommended. The orzo pasta can become mushy and the vegetables may lose their texture. It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh or within a few days of making it.

What other vegetables can I add to this salad?

Feel free to add other vegetables such as cucumber, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

If you don’t have feta cheese on hand, you can substitute it with goat cheese or mozzarella. However, feta cheese provides a unique salty and tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.

How can I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, substitute the feta cheese with a vegan feta alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Ensure any optional additions, such as grilled chicken, are replaced with plant-based options like chickpeas or tofu.