Orzo and Peas Herb Salad

Orzo and Peas Herb Salad Recipe from Egypt | Ingredients: orzo, peas, celery, oregano, chives, parsley, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, plum tomatoes, white pepper, salt

Region / culture: Egypt | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Orzo and Peas Herb Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. This salad is packed with fresh herbs, vegetables, and a tangy dressing that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

History

Orzo and Peas Herb Salad is a modern twist on traditional pasta salads. Orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta, is often used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. The addition of fresh herbs and vegetables gives this salad a burst of flavor and color.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of orzo pasta
8 oz (227 g) of peas
2 stalks of celery, trimmed and diced
0.5 oz (14 g) of fresh oregano, chopped
0.5 oz (14 g) of fresh chives, chopped
0.5 oz (14 g) of fresh parsley, chopped
3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp of red wine vinegar
5 tbsp of lemon juice or juice of one lemon
2-3 plum tomatoes, diced
A pinch of white pepper
A pinch of salt

How to prepare

Cook the orzo in lightly salted boiling water for 7 minutes or until it is cooked through. Remove it to a colander, drain, and rinse it well with cold water.
Place the orzo in a large serving bowl; then drizzle 1 tsp of olive oil around the orzo and toss it well.
Cook the peas in slightly salted boiling water for 1–2 minutes, drain them, and rinse them with cold water in a colander.
Mix the peas and orzo together, slowly adding all the other ingredients until they are well mixed.
Add salt and white pepper to taste.

Variations

Add grilled shrimp or chicken for a protein boost.
Substitute other vegetables such as bell peppers or cucumbers for the peas.
Use different herbs such as basil or mint for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the orzo well after cooking to prevent it from sticking together.

- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted if needed.

- Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon to suit your taste preferences.

- This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Orzo and Peas Herb Salad can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing lunch.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the orzo until al dente for the best texture.

- Blanch the peas for a vibrant green color and crisp texture.

- Mix the dressing ingredients separately before adding to the salad for even distribution.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of pasta in place of orzo.

- Substitute apple cider vinegar for red wine vinegar.

- Use any type of fresh herbs you have on hand.

Make Ahead Tips

Orzo and Peas Herb Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the fresh herbs just before serving for the best flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salad with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a pop of color and flavor. Serve in a large bowl or on a platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Orzo and Peas Herb Salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or a simple green salad. Serve with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Serve cold or at room temperature. Do not freeze.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Orzo and Peas Herb Salad contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

One serving of Orzo and Peas Herb Salad contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

One serving of Orzo and Peas Herb Salad contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

One serving of Orzo and Peas Herb Salad contains approximately 6 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Orzo and Peas Herb Salad is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the pasta. It can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free pasta.

Summary

Orzo and Peas Herb Salad is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in carbohydrates and low in fat. It is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Orzo and Peas Herb Salad is a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer meal or picnic. Packed with fresh herbs, vegetables, and a tangy dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Sarah's house for a lunch gathering. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the most incredible aroma of fresh herbs and citrus. Sarah was bustling around the kitchen, tossing together a salad unlike any I had ever seen before.

I watched in awe as she combined cooked orzo pasta with vibrant green peas, chopped fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. The colors and textures were so appealing, and I could practically taste the freshness just by looking at it. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Sarah noticed my interest and invited me to help her prepare the salad. As we worked side by side, she shared the story of how she had discovered the recipe. She had been traveling in Greece with her husband, and they stumbled upon a charming little café in a picturesque village. The owner, a friendly elderly woman, had graciously shared her family recipe for orzo and peas herb salad.

Sarah had made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding her own twist with the addition of fresh mint and feta cheese. The flavors were a perfect balance of savory and refreshing, and I couldn't wait to try it for myself.

After that day, I made it a mission to master the art of making orzo and peas herb salad. I spent hours researching different variations of the recipe, experimenting with different herb combinations and vinaigrettes. I even reached out to friends and family members who had their own versions of the dish, gathering tips and tricks along the way.

One particularly memorable experience was when I visited my own grandmother, who was an incredible cook in her own right. She had a treasure trove of recipes passed down through generations, and I was eager to see if she had a version of the salad.

As soon as I mentioned the dish, her eyes lit up with recognition. She disappeared into her kitchen and emerged with a weathered recipe card, yellowed with age and stained with splatters of food. It was her own take on orzo and peas herb salad, a family favorite that had been enjoyed at countless gatherings over the years.

I watched intently as she walked me through the recipe, sharing little tips and tricks that had been handed down to her from her own mother. She emphasized the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and taking the time to let the flavors meld together before serving.

I left my grandmother's house that day with a newfound appreciation for the power of food to bring people together. The recipe for orzo and peas herb salad had become more than just a dish to me – it was a connection to my family's past, a way to honor the traditions and memories that had been passed down through the generations.

Over the years, I continued to perfect my version of the salad, adding my own personal touches and sharing it with friends and loved ones. Each time I made it, I felt a sense of pride and joy, knowing that I was carrying on a legacy of good food and warm memories.

And so, whenever I make a batch of orzo and peas herb salad, I can't help but think of all the people who have influenced my journey – from Sarah and her Greek adventure, to my grandmother and her timeless recipe. It's a dish that speaks to the power of tradition and the joy of sharing good food with the ones we love. And for that, I am forever grateful.