Greek Isles Salad

Charmie777's Note:

I got this recipe years ago from an online friend, and adjusted it to suit my family's tastes. It's such a great salad. I take it to potlucks all the time, and it's always the first thing gone! Great alone, or use it to stuff a tomato. Also, you can add grape or cherry tomatoes.

• Total Time: 20 mins
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 6

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or use half olive oil)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 8 ounces orzo pasta
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced (or green)
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1/2 lb feta cheese, cubed
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced

optional

• cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes

Directions:

1. Combine oil, lemon juice, vinegar, oregano, salt and pepper in bowl and whisk until well blended. Refrigerate until ready to use -- the longer the better.
2. Cook orzo according to package directions.
3. Drain and rinse with cold water.
4. Pour dressing over pasta and stir gently to coat.
5. Add remaining ingredients.
6. Refrigerate, covered, until serving time.

Reviews

[Dr. Jenny]

I really enjoyed this fresh tasting salad! It was quick and easy to prepare, which made it ideal for a work night or other times when you need just a very light meal. I can see why this is a hit at BBQs. The only change I made was to use all olive oil and I used kalamata olives instead of black olives, which I chopped instead of sliced for more even distribution. I agree with Brooke that the cherry tomatoes are a must. I would definitely make this salad again. I chilled for about an hour before I ate a little and ran out the door. I am excited to try the leftovers tomorrow after the flavors have melded even more. Thanks, Charmie! Made for ZWT6.

[Enjolinfam]

This was fantastic! I absolutely loved all of the wonderful Greek flavors to this salad. I added penne noodles to it, because I realized last minute that I only had about 2 ounces of orzo and the family was excited to try this today. Thanks for a great recipe Charmie! Made for ZWT^ - LOONEY SPOON PHOODIES! :D :D :D

[Brooke the Cook in WI]

Great Greek salad! I sweetened the dressing up a little with some honey as the dressing was nice and tart and I was afraid it wouldn't lend itself to the meal quite right. It all worked out wonderfully! Used kalamata's and the optional cherry tomatoes, halved (and I think the tomatoes are a must). Made for ZWT6.