Go Back
+ servings
Overhead of orzo pasta salad in a white bowl on a light countertop.

Vegetarian Summer Orzo Salad

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the bounty of fresh summer vegetables and herbs, this Vegetarian Summer Orzo Salad recipe is the recipe for you!
4 from 1 vote
Print Pin
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Additional Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 426kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups dry orzo pasta
  • ¼ cup olive oil divided
  • 2 cups spinach leaves chopped
  • 15 ounces canned chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 8 ounces mozzarella pearls
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • ½ red onion diced
  • 1 medium cucumber chopped
  • ½ cup chopped fresh basil
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dry oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  • Cook the dry orzo pasta according to the manufacturer's instructions, drain, then transfer to a bowl and toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Set aside to cool for about 20 minutes.
  • Stir together the spinach, chickpeas, mozzarella pearls, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and basil in a large bowl. Add the cooked orzo and toss to combine.
  • In a small bowl, whisk the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil with the balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the dressing to the orzo mixture and toss to combine. Serve!

Notes

  • Tossing the orzo in the oil is essential to keep the orzo from becoming one stuck-together mess. Don’t skip this step!
  • Store leftovers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 426kcal | Carbohydrates: 54g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 22mg | Sodium: 571mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 8g