Ina Garten's
Greek Orzo Salad
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1 cup orzo (about 8 ounces)
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Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
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¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice, plus extra for serving (2 lemons)
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½ cup good olive oil
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1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
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½ cup (¼-inch) diced red Holland bell pepper
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½ cup (¼-inch) diced red onion
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3 tablespoons capers in brine, drained
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3 tablespoons minced fresh dill
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4 ounces Greek feta, ½-inch diced (not crumbled)
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½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved lengthwise
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2 cups baby arugula
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½ lemon, thinly sliced, for serving
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Cook the Orzo: Bring 6 cups (1.5 liters) of water to a boil in a large saucepan, add 1 tablespoon of salt, then the orzo; return to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
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Make the Vinaigrette: Whisk together ¼ cup (60 ml) lemon juice, ½ cup (120 ml) olive oil, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper in a 1-cup (240 ml) glass measuring cup.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour the vinaigrette over the warm orzo and stir well. Gently mix in the chickpeas, diced bell pepper, diced onion, capers, dill, diced feta, and halved olives.
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Finish the Salad: Just before serving, stir in the 2 cups of arugula, add lemon slices, a squeeze of lemon juice, and taste for seasoning adjustments.
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Serve: Enjoy the salad warm or at room temperature.
