Orzo & Cranberry Chickpea Salad with Feta & Lemon Oregano Dressing

If you’re craving a refreshing, vibrant salad that’s as nourishing as it is delicious, this Orzo & Cranberry Chickpea Salad with Feta & Lemon Oregano Dressing will become your new favorite! It’s a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, making it an ideal dish for picnics, potlucks, or a wholesome lunch. I promised you versatile, and here’s proof – this salad is easy to prepare and absolutely packed with textures and flavors you’ll love!

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Why You’ll Love This Orzo & Cranberry Chickpea Salad

This salad isn’t just a pretty dish – it’s bursting with benefits and flavors that make it a staple recipe. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Balanced Flavors: Sweet cranberries, tangy feta, and zesty lemon oregano dressing combine for a perfect bite.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple, fresh ingredients.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stays fresh for days, making it ideal for busy weeks.
• Versatile: Serve as a side dish or a satisfying main course.

What Does This Salad Taste Like?

Imagine tender orzo pasta tossed with hearty chickpeas, bursts of sweet cranberries, cool cucumber, and a savory touch of feta. The lemon oregano dressing adds a bright, zesty finish, while toasted nuts give a delightful crunch. Each bite is refreshing, satisfying, and packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

Benefits of This Salad

• Nutrient-Rich: Full of plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
• Heart-Healthy: Olive oil and chickpeas are known to support heart health.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak based on dietary preferences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:

• 1 cup orzo pasta, cooked & cooled
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained & rinsed
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup toasted almonds or walnuts, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Lemon Oregano Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Tools You Need for This Recipe

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Customizing Your Salad: Additions & Substitutions

Want to make this salad your own? Here are some easy swaps and add-ins:

• Grain-Free: Substitute the orzo with cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice.
• Vegan: Replace feta with a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Extra Greens: Toss in a handful of arugula or baby spinach.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or tofu for a heartier meal.

How to Make Orzo & Cranberry Chickpea Salad: Step-By-Step Instructions

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1. Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.

2. Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, chickpeas, cranberries, feta, cucumber, red onion, nuts, and parsley.

3. Toss & Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss carefully to ensure everything is well-coated. Allow the salad to rest for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors combine.

Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy every refreshing bite!

What to Serve with Orzo & Cranberry Chickpea Salad

This salad is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:

• Grilled Chicken or Fish: A light protein complements the salad’s bright flavors.
• Pita Bread or Flatbread: Perfect for scooping up every delicious bite.
• Soup: Pair with a warm, comforting soup for a satisfying meal.

Pro Tips for Perfect Salad Every Time

• Cool the Orzo: Rinse the cooked orzo under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent clumping.
• Toast the Nuts: Lightly toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and adds crunch.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the salad and dressing separately, combining them just before serving.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust lemon juice, salt, or honey to your liking.

How to Store Your Salad

• Keep chilled: Place in a sealed container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Stir before serving.
• Make Ahead: Prep ingredients in advance and assemble when ready to serve.

General Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: About 6 servings

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely! The flavors blend beautifully over time, making it even more delicious after a few hours.

Can I use a different pasta? Yes! Try small pasta shapes like couscous or farro for variety.

Is this salad gluten-free? You can make it suitable by using gluten-free pasta instead.

Conclusion: A Refreshing & Satisfying Salad

This Orzo & Cranberry Chickpea Salad with Feta & Lemon Oregano Dressing is a refreshing, protein-packed dish that’s sure to brighten any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, it delivers on taste, texture, and nutrition. I’d love to hear how yours turned out – leave a comment below and share your photos on Pinterest!

For more delicious and easy recipes, check out these creations:

• Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts
• Goat Cheese & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad
• Spinach Basil Pesto Recipe – Healthy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

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