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risoni recipes salad

Risoni Recipes Salad: Fresh & Healthy Pasta Salad Recipe

Risoni Recipes Salad is a refreshing and versatile dish made with small, rice-shaped pasta (orzo), mixed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a light vinaigrette dressing. It's a quick and easy-to-make meal or side dish, perfect for lunch, dinner, or a potluck. The salad is fully customizable, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables, proteins, and dressings for a personalized twist.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup risoni orzo pasta
  • 1 cucumber diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 cup black olives sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • Fresh herbs parsley, basil, or mint, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot (for boiling risoni pasta)
  • Strainer (to drain pasta)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl (for dressing)
  • Whisk or spoon (for mixing dressing)
  • Knife and cutting board (for chopping vegetables and herbs)

Method
 

  1. Cook the Risoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the risoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta.
    risoni recipes salad
  2. Prepare the Vegetables and Cheese: While the pasta is cooling, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the red onion and olives, and crumble the feta cheese. Chop the fresh herbs.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard (optional), salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Combine the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled risoni, prepared vegetables, olives, feta, and fresh herbs.
  5. Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
    risoni recipes salad

Notes

  • Make it ahead: This salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
  • Protein options: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to turn the salad into a more filling main dish.
  • Customize your veggies: Feel free to use seasonal vegetables or your favorite salad toppings to make the dish your own.
  • For a vegan version: Omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.risoni recipes salad