Description
A fresh and vibrant Mediterranean-inspired salad combining tender orzo pasta, protein-rich chickpeas, and crisp vegetables in a bright lemon dressing. Perfect for meal prep or as a light main course.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup Orzo pasta
- 2 cups Fresh baby spinach
- 1 can (15 oz) Chickpeas
- 1/4 cup Fresh lemon juice
- 1/3 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves Garlic cloves
- To taste Salt and pepper
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Feta cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add orzo and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and let cool completely to prevent wilting the spinach.
- Step 2: Prepare Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well emulsified and smooth.
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine cooled orzo, drained chickpeas, fresh spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese if using.
- Step 4: Dress and Mix – Pour the lemon dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly without crushing the tomatoes.
- Step 5: Rest and Serve – Allow the salad to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld and develop properly.
Notes
- Rinse cooked orzo with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking, ensuring perfect texture in your final salad
- Add spinach to slightly warm orzo so it wilts just enough without becoming soggy or losing its vibrant color
- Taste and adjust seasoning after the salad rests, as flavors intensify and you may need additional lemon juice or salt
- This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and actually improves in flavor as it sits
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 385 calories
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: lemon orzo chickpea salad, Mediterranean salad, pasta salad, vegetarian, meal prep, healthy lunch