ORZO SALAD WITH PEPPERS AND FETA
Piperade, a classic Basque dish of stewed peppers, onions and tomatoes, becomes a flavorful sauce for this pasta. Colorful bell peppers simmer in olive oil and aromatics until meltingly soft, and juicy tomatoes simmer alongside until they burst, lending both tangy and sweet notes. Briny feta adds salty bites to complement the sweet pepper sauce, but tart aged goat cheese makes a good alternative. This side is even better at room temperature, making it the perfect make-ahead dish for summer picnics or potlucks.
Provided by Kay Chun
Categories dinner, easy, lunch, pastas, salads and dressings, main course, side dish
Time 30m
Yield 4 to 6 servings (about 10 cups)
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Cook orzo in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta, pressing out excess liquid. Spread out on a baking sheet to cool.
- Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat oil over medium. Add onion, bell peppers and thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add tomato and cook, stirring occasionally, until broken down and juices release, about 8 minutes.
- Add the reserved pasta water and stir to scrape up any browned bits at the bottom of the skillet. Transfer vegetable mixture to a large bowl to cool slightly to lukewarm, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to speed up the cooling process. Discard thyme sprig.
- Add cooled orzo, lemon juice, basil and cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Mix well, then transfer to a large serving bowl or platter. Garnish with more basil.
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Chuj Xh
[email protected]Yum!
IMLQ JAM
[email protected]I liked it!
Renuka Malkanthi
[email protected]I wasn't sure about the combination, but I'm so glad I tried this recipe. It's now my go-to summer salad! Making it again this weekend!
Aduening Richard
[email protected]This orzo salad was a delightful side to my grilled fish. The tangy dressing and fresh herbs really brightened up the dish.
Ilyas Qalandranii
[email protected]I love the salty flavor of feta in this. It complements the sweetness of the peppers perfectly.
Mahadi Makatu
[email protected]I made this dish with a few substitutions to cater to my family's taste, but it was still delicious! I'm so glad I found this recipe.
Kala Lala
[email protected]Nice recipe, I followed the instructions and it turned out great. I particularly appreciated the use of fresh vegetables, which gave the salad a vibrant flavor.
Alieny Lara
[email protected]5 stars! This was a hit at my 4th of July BBQ! Everyone I served it to asked for the recipe!
Lethintha Vincent Kobola
[email protected]I thought the orzo salad was really refreshing! I'm a picky eater, but I loved the flavors and textures in this dish. Will definitely be adding this to my list of favorite salads.
Linda Asencio
[email protected]Loved making this easy and tasty orzo salad! My kids went for seconds! My husband declared it restaurant quality!