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Fresh Mason Jar Greek Orzo Pasta Salad Easy Herb Vinaigrette Recipe

Greek Orzo Pasta Salad - featured image
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A fresh, light, and tangy Greek orzo pasta salad layered in mason jars with a zesty herb vinaigrette, perfect for quick lunches, picnics, or easy entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (about 200g) uncooked orzo pasta
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring 4 cups (1 liter) of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup (200g) orzo and cook for 8-9 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool completely.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and 1 minced garlic clove. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Dice 1 medium cucumber, halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes, pit and halve 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, finely chop 1/4 cup red onion (optional), and chop 2 tbsp parsley and 1 tbsp dill.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cucumber, tomatoes, olives, onion, and herbs. Pour the vinaigrette over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Add 1/2 cup crumbled feta and fold in carefully.
  5. Spoon the salad into 16 oz (500 ml) mason jars, packing gently but not squashing. Seal with lids and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Shake gently before eating.

Notes

Rinse orzo after cooking to prevent sticking and cool it for layering. Prepare vinaigrette in a jar and shake before tossing to save cleanup. For best texture, add feta just before serving if making ahead. Layer dressing at the bottom of the jar to prevent sogginess. Variations include swapping orzo for quinoa for gluten-free, adding proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, and using different fresh herbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek pasta salad, orzo salad, mason jar salad, herb vinaigrette, easy lunch, picnic recipe, Mediterranean salad

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/fresh-mason-jar-greek-orzo-pasta-salad-easy-herb-vinaigrette-recipe/