Best 2 Orzo Pasta Salad With Dried Cranberries Recipes

**Orzo Pasta Salad with Dried Cranberries: A Refreshing and Flavorful Side Dish**

This colorful and flavorful orzo pasta salad is a perfect addition to any summer gathering or potluck. It's made with cooked orzo pasta, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, crumbled feta cheese, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing. The combination of sweet and tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and creamy feta cheese creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. This orzo pasta salad is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have a delicious and refreshing side dish ready to enjoy in no time. This recipe is also highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to your liking. Whether you prefer a tangier dressing or want to add additional vegetables, the possibilities are endless. So gather your ingredients, grab your apron, and let's embark on a culinary journey to create this vibrant and flavorful orzo pasta salad with dried cranberries.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

FETA & CRANBERRY ORZO SALAD

Feta & Cranberry Orzo Salad image

It takes only minutes to make this awesome pasta salad. While the orzo is cooking, assemble the rest of the ingredients and it will be ready to go. My husband devoured this side dish.-Antigone Papoutsis, Nederland, Texas

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch Side Dishes

Time 20m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
1-1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
1 cup (4 ounces) crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup dried cranberries
4 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper

Steps:

In a large saucepan, bring broth to a boil. Add orzo and return to a boil. Cook, uncovered, for 8-10 minutes or until orzo is tender; drain. , In a large bowl, combine the orzo, feta, cranberries and onions. In a small bowl, whisk the oil, salt and pepper. Pour over orzo mixture; toss to coat. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 350 calories, Fat 13g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 10mg cholesterol, Sodium 619mg sodium, Carbohydrate 47g carbohydrate (9g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 11g protein.

WALNUT CRANBERRY ORZO

Walnut Cranberry Orzo image

I came up with this delightful side dish after becoming fascinated by the tiny pasta. With red pepper, cranberries, walnuts and Parmesan, it's as colorful as it is flavorful. -Judith Comstock, Salado, Texas

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Side Dishes

Time 30m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

1-1/4 cups uncooked orzo pasta
1 medium sweet red pepper, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
1-1/2 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

Cook orzo according to package directions. Meanwhile, saute red pepper and onion in oil until tender. Stir in the broth, cranberries and salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes., Drain orzo; toss with vegetable mixture. Sprinkle with walnuts and Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 283 calories, Fat 9g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 3mg cholesterol, Sodium 216mg sodium, Carbohydrate 43g carbohydrate (9g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 10g protein.

Tips:

Choose the right orzo pasta. Look for a small, grain-shaped pasta that will hold its shape well in the salad.
Cook the orzo pasta al dente. This means that it should be cooked until it is just tender, but still has a slight bite to it.
Use a variety of vegetables. This will add color, texture, and flavor to the salad. Some good options include chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrots.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different dressings. A simple vinaigrette is a good starting point, but you can also try a creamy dressing or a pesto dressing.
Add some protein to the salad. This will make it a more complete meal. Some good options include grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Serve the salad chilled. This will help the flavors to meld together and will make the salad more refreshing.

Conclusion:

Orzo pasta salad is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or a potluck. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own preferences. With a few simple tips, you can make a delicious orzo pasta salad that everyone will love.