The Spinach Orzo Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that combines the health benefits of spinach with the comforting texture of orzo pasta. This dish starts with a quick and flavorful spinach stir-fry, where fresh spinach is sautéed with garlic, red onion, and sweet grape tomatoes, infusing every bite with warmth and depth. The sautéed mixture is then tossed with al dente orzo, creating a hearty base that perfectly complements the salad components.
What makes this pasta salad truly special are the added fresh elements. Crunchy celery, vibrant green onions, and aromatic dill bring brightness and texture, while toasted pine nuts and crumbled feta cheese add richness and a delightful crunch. With a splash of your favorite Italian dressing, this dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly tasty. Perfect for meal prep or gatherings, this salad is sure to impress friends and family alike!
Spinach Orzo Pasta Salad
Description
This Spinach Orzo Pasta Salad bursts with fresh and vibrant flavors. The sautéed spinach and tomatoes provide a savory foundation, while the cool crunch of celery and fresh dill brighten each bite. The creamy feta and nutty pine nuts elevate the dish, making it a well-balanced medley of textures and tastes. The subtle kick from the spices adds just the right amount of warmth without overpowering the freshness of the ingredients.
Ingredients
Fresh Salad Mix:
Spinach Stir Fry
Pasta
Instructions
Spinach Stir-Fry:
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Heat oil on medium high. Add garlic saute for 30 sec.
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add red onion and saute for 90 sec
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Add cut tomatoes and seer each side stirring frequently ( about 3 min)
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Add cut spinach saute until spinach just wilts.
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Add sea salt, cayenne pepper, paprika, and cracked pepper. Stir and remove from heat and set aside.
Pasta:
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Cook Orzo pasta al dente (about 6 minutes) in boiling water with 1tsp salt and 1/2 tsp olive oil.
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Drain and rinse with cold water and set aside.
Salad Mix:
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Combine celery, green onion, dill, Italian dressing, pine nuts, and feta. Set aside.
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Combine Spinach Stir-Fry with Orzo pasta. Toss in the fresh salad mix ingredients.
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Refrigerate and Serve when you are ready to eat.
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 142.69kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8.02g13%
- Saturated Fat 1.91g10%
- Cholesterol 10.8mg4%
- Sodium 191.01mg8%
- Potassium 297.07mg9%
- Total Carbohydrate 14.1g5%
- Dietary Fiber 1.73g7%
- Sugars 2.11g
- Protein 4.71g10%
- Vitamin A 132.66 IU
- Vitamin C 12.06 mg
- Calcium 80.2 mg
- Iron 1.25 mg
- Vitamin D 0.03 IU
- Vitamin E 1.45 IU
- Vitamin K 116.49 mcg
- Thiamin 0.07 mg
- Riboflavin 0.15 mg
- Niacin 0.92 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.15 mg
- Folate 57.36 mcg
- Vitamin B12 0.15 mcg
- Phosphorus 104.14 mg
- Magnesium 42.02 mg
- Zinc 0.93 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Other Ingredient Options: Olives, Garbanzo Beans, Tomatoes and Red Onions are also good options and provide a variety of bursting flavors to this dish.
Tips for Preparation: Ensure to rinse the orzo with cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and keep it from becoming mushy. You can also customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions: This pasta salad is delicious on its own but also makes a great side dish for grilled meats or a picnic spread. It can be served warm or cold, making it versatile for any occasion.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day!