A quick homemade balsamic vinaigrette makes this simple Spinach and Orzo Salad extra special. Serve as a light lunch or a side with dinner.
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Cook Time10 minutesmins
Total Time25 minutesmins
Total Cost: $5.50 recipe / $1.38 serving
Servings: 4
Ingredients
BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE
1/4cupolive oil$0.52
2Tbspbalsamic vinegar$0.22
1clovegarlic, minced$0.08
1tspDijon mustard$0.03
Salt and pepper to taste$0.03
SALAD
1/2lborzo$0.50
4cupsfresh baby spinach$1.50
1/2cupsun dried tomatoes$1.50
2ozfeta$1.12
Instructions
Prepare the vinaigrette first to allow the flavors time to blend. Add the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon, about 1/4 tsp salt, and some freshly cracked pepper to a jar or bowl. Whisk until the ingredients are combined, or place a lid on the jar and shake for 10-15 seconds. Set the dressing aside.
Bring a pot of water to a boil to cook the orzo. Once boiling, add the orzo and continue to boil until tender. Drain the orzo and allow it to cool just slightly.
While waiting for the orzo to cook, chop the sun dried tomatoes into small pieces. Place them in a bowl and cover with hot water (I used a ladle full of boiling water from the pot just before adding the pasta). Let the chopped sun dried tomatoes sit in the hot water for about 5 minutes, then drain.
Place the baby spinach in a large bowl. Add the drained and still warm orzo to the bowl, along with the soaked sun dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over top, then toss until the ingredients are combined and coated with vinaigrette. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to eat.