Mediterranean Lamb and Orzo Salad
Embark on a culinary odyssey with our Mediterranean Lamb and Orzo Salad an enticing fusion of robust flavors and Mediterranean charm. This exquisite creation combines tender orzo pasta with seasoned ground lamb, creating a hearty base that’s complemented by the freshness of cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and the briny notes of Kalamata olives. To crown this symphony, crumbled feta cheese adds a creamy richness, and a Lemon-Garlic Dressing imparts a zesty kick.
As you take your first bite, the succulence of seasoned lamb harmonizes with the vibrant medley of vegetables and the tangy feta. The Lemon-Garlic Dressing weaves its way through, elevating every ingredient to a new level of culinary excellence. Perfect for those seeking a wholesome yet flavorful dining experience, this salad invites you to savor the essence of the Mediterranean a marriage of savory, fresh, and delightful. Immerse yourself in the richness of Mediterranean Lamb and Orzo Salad—a symphony of tastes that transports your palate to sun-kissed shores and rustic villages.
“Give careful consideration to your pasta selection. Opt for shapes like elbows, shells, or orecchiette, as they seamlessly blend with other ingredients. Ruffled options such as campanelle, cascatelli, and the delightful radiatorre provide texture, trapping sauces and dressings for an enjoyable dining experience. Remember to generously salt the pasta water for enhanced flavor, particularly crucial for cold dishes. When cooking the pasta, go slightly beyond al dente, ensuring it retains a firm texture once cooled. Overcooked pasta can turn tough in the fridge, so strike the right balance for a perfect pasta salad every time. the joy of savoring delicious moments. Let’s embark on a pasta salad adventure together!”
“Prioritize oil over vinegar. While a sharply acidic vinaigrette suits leafy greens, exercise restraint with acidic components, particularly vinegar, in pasta salads. Over time, the vinegar can develop an undesirable metallic aftertaste. Elevate the dish by increasing the amount of high-quality oil and incorporating flavor enhancers like whole grain mustard, anchovies, or pesto for a tasteful and balanced result.”
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta, cooked and cooled
- 1 lb ground lamb, seasoned and cooked
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh mint leaves, chopped (for garnish)
For the Lemon-Garlic Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Orzo: Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- Cook Lamb: Season ground lamb with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo pasta, cooked ground lamb, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, sliced Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Prepare Lemon-Garlic Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the lemon-garlic dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are well coated.
- Chill and Garnish: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped mint leaves.
- Serve and Enjoy: Delight in the Mediterranean Lamb and Orzo Salad—a succulent blend of seasoned lamb, orzo, and Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for a satisfying and flavorful meal.