Description
A delightful Spinach and Orzo Salad with the sweet tang of dried cherries, the crunch of almonds, and the richness of feta cheese, all tossed in a refreshing lemon honey dressing. This salad is perfect as a light meal or a side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Orzo
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Salad
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cherries
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds, lightly toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 small red onion, very thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the Lemon Honey Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Bring 4 cups of water and salt to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions (about 8–10 minutes) until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly with cool water to stop the cooking. Let it cool completely.
- Toast the Almonds: Place sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled orzo, chopped spinach, dried cherries, toasted almonds, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese.
- Dress and Toss: Pour the lemon honey dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
