Include in Print View:

Spinach Orzo Pasta Salad

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!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Total Time 45 mins
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 8
Best Season: Spring, Summer
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:
  • 1 stalk celery (chopped in small pieces)
  • 1 green onion (cut in slivers)
  • 2 Tbs fresh dill (chopped fine)
  • 2 Tbs Zesty Italian dressing
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
    • Spinach Stir Fry
  • 6 oz fresh Baby Spinach (6 oz)
  • 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 Clove garlic (crushed)
  • 1/8 Cup red onion (chopped small)
  • 1 pint grape tomato (cut in halves)
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cracked pepper
    • Pasta
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta (cooked according to box directions yields about 2.5 cups cooked)
Instructions
    Spinach Stir-Fry:
  1. 1
    Heat oil on medium high. Add garlic saute for 30 sec.
  2. 2
    add red onion and saute for 90 sec
  3. 3
    Add cut tomatoes and seer each side stirring frequently ( about 3 min)
  4. 4
    Add cut spinach saute until spinach just wilts.
  5. 5
    Add sea salt, cayenne pepper, paprika, and cracked pepper. Stir and remove from heat and set aside.
    6. Pasta:
  6. 6
    Cook Orzo pasta al dente (about 6 minutes) in boiling water with 1tsp salt and 1/2 tsp olive oil.
  7. 7
    Drain and rinse with cold water and set aside.
    8. Salad Mix:
  8. 8
    Combine celery, green onion, dill, Italian dressing, pine nuts, and feta. Set aside.
  9. 9
    Combine Spinach Stir-Fry with Orzo pasta. Toss in the fresh salad mix ingredients.
  10. 10
    Refrigerate and Serve when you are ready to eat.

Nutrition Facts

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!

https://ushaskitchen.com https://ushaskitchen.com/recipe/spinach-orzo-pasta-salad/

Thanks for trying this recipe.

Please let me know what your thoughts are about this recipe.