Name: Marinated Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Jars
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice (plus more for serving); 2 tablespoons honey; 1 shallot (grated); 1 clove garlic (grated); 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped); 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (chopped); chili flakes; kosher salt; black pepper; 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds ((sunflower/pinenuts)); 1-2 bell peppers (thinly sliced); 8 ounces feta cheese (cubed); 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved); 1 1/2 cups chopped cucumbers; 1 1/12 cups pitted kalamata olives; 2 cups cooked orzo pasta; 1/2 cup mixed chopped dill and basil; 1 cup hummus; 4 cups fresh arugula

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Whenever I find myself craving a refreshing yet fulfilling dish, I turn to my favorite summer recipe: Marinated Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Jars. This vibrant salad not only bursts with flavor but also offers a delightful combination of textures that dance on your palate. Imagine sunny days spent outdoors, picnicking with friends, enjoying the vibrant colors and tastes of fresh ingredients. That’s exactly what this salad embodies! The layers of orzo, feta cheese, and crunchy vegetables create a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for any summer gathering. Plus, the jars make it easy to transport, keeping everything fresh and ready to enjoy. I love how easy it is to whip up and how it looks so appealing, making it a top-choice for potlucks or casual family dinners. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
12 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Grater, Whisk

Why Try This Marinated Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Jars

It’s All About the Freshness

One of the greatest joys of making Marinated Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Jars is the burst of freshness you get with every bite. The combination of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh herbs brings a garden feel right to your table. It’s like taking a little walk through a summer garden, all in a jar!

Convenient and Portable

Who doesn’t love a meal that’s both delicious and convenient? These jars are perfect for meal prep or to take along on trips. Just grab a jar, and you’re ready to go! It’s a quick grab-and-eat option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.

Customizable to Your Taste

The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility. While I love the classic version with feta and sun-kissed tomatoes, you can easily swap out ingredients to fit your preferences. Want to add more crunch? Toss in some nuts or swap the feta cheese for another cheese that you love.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a day at the beach, or simply a refreshing dinner at home, this salad is a fantastic choice. It’s not just a side; it can be the star of your meal, served alongside grilled chicken or fish.

Lasts in the Fridge

Another perk? These jars can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld together beautifully, and you’ll have a quick meal option at your fingertips, ready to enjoy whenever hunger strikes!

What Goes Into Marinated Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Jars

Creating the perfect Marinated Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Jars is all about using fresh, high-quality ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Each ingredient plays a role, from the creamy feta cheese to the crunchy bell peppers and the aromatic herbs. Together, they create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that’s absolutely irresistible.

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and depth, making the dressing flavorful.
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: Provides a tangy acidity that balances the richness of the olive oil.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens the dish and adds a zesty kick.
2 tablespoons honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the acidity.
1 shallot, grated: Adds a subtle onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
1 clove garlic, grated: Infuses the dressing with aromatic flavor.
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Brings in a refreshing herbal note.
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped: Adds depth and earthiness.
Chili flakes: A hint of spice to elevate the flavor.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing all flavors.
2 tablespoons sunflower seeds: For crunch and nutty flavor.
1-2 bell peppers, thinly sliced: Adds color and sweetness.
8 ounces feta cheese, cubed: Creamy and tangy, the star of the salad.
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy and sweet, these add freshness.
1 1/2 cups chopped cucumbers: Crisp and refreshing, these bring texture.
1 1/12 cups pitted kalamata olives: Adds briny depth.
2 cups cooked orzo pasta: The base of the salad, adding heartiness.
1/2 cup mixed chopped dill and basil: For an aromatic herbal boost.
1 cup hummus: Adds creaminess and flavor.
4 cups fresh arugula: For a peppery green finish.

Recipe Steps for Marinated Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Jars

Getting this Marinated Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Jars ready is a fun and straightforward process! You’ll see how each step builds upon the last, transforming simple ingredients into a vibrant meal in no time. Let’s get started with making the dressing first and then assembling these gorgeous jars!

To make the dressing, grab a glass jar and add the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, honey, grated shallot, and grated garlic. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until everything is combined. Taste and season with chili flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper to your liking. The dressing should have a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors.
Now, it’s time to layer the jars. You will need 4 (16-ounce) glass jars. Start with the bottom layer by adding the sunflower seeds followed by the thinly sliced bell peppers. Distribute these evenly among the jars.
Next, pour about 1/4 of the dressing into each jar. This will help the layers stay fresh and flavorful. Then, add the cubed feta cheese on top of the dressing, followed by the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumbers, and pitted kalamata olives.
Carefully add the cooked orzo pasta on top of the olives, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed. This will make the salad hearty and filling.
Now it’s time for the herbs! Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil and oregano over the orzo. Then, add the mixed chopped dill and basil for an aromatic finish.
Next, add a generous dollop of hummus on top. This adds creaminess and enhances the flavor.
Finally, top each jar with a good handful of fresh arugula. This not only adds color but also provides a peppery bite to the salad.
Once all the layers are complete, seal each jar tightly with its lid. These jars can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pour the contents of a jar into a bowl. Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the top and season with additional salt if desired. Enjoy this refreshing meal!

Things Worth Knowing

Ingredient Quality: Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture. The feta cheese and vegetables should be of high quality to make a noticeable difference.
Layering Technique: When layering your jars, always start with the heavier ingredients at the bottom to prevent sogginess.
Storage Tips: Ensure jars are sealed tightly to keep everything fresh. Store in the fridge and consume within three days for best taste.
Serving Idea: Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature; both options are delicious.

Make It Your Own

There’s so much joy in personalizing your Marinated Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Jars! Here are some fantastic tips to make this recipe uniquely yours:

Mixed Greens: Feel free to swap out the arugula for your favorite leafy greens like spinach or kale.
Nutty Crunch: You can add toasted nuts or seeds for an extra crunch.
Cheese Swap: If you aren’t a fan of feta, try goat cheese or a creamy ricotta for a different flavor profile.
Seasonal Veggies: Use whatever fresh vegetables are in season to keep the salad vibrant and interesting.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or parsley for a unique twist.

Serving Options for Marinated Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Jars

When it comes to enjoying the Marinated Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Jars, the possibilities are endless! Here’s how you can serve this delicious salad:

As a Light Lunch: Perfect for warm summer days, serve it as a light lunch option that’s packed with nutrients and flavor.
Great for Picnics: These jars are ideal for outdoor picnics. They’re easy to transport and make serving a breeze.
Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a delightful dinner. Its refreshing taste complements many main courses.
Meal Prep: Make several jars ahead of time and store them in the fridge for quick, healthy lunches throughout the week.
Party Platter: Serve these jars as part of a larger spread at your next gathering or party. They’re visually appealing and a hit with guests.
Seasonal Pairings: Perfect for summer barbecues or gatherings, they fit right in with fresh summer flavors. You can also serve alongside seasonal fruits for a complete meal.

FAQ

To ensure your Marinated Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Jars stay fresh, make sure to seal each jar tightly with its lid. Store them in the refrigerator and aim to consume them within three days for optimal flavor and freshness. The ingredients will meld together nicely over time, making each jar more flavorful!

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of the Marinated Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Jars is their versatility. You can easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Try adding different vegetables like carrots or radishes, or even change the cheese to goat cheese for a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!

You can store your Marinated Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Jars in the refrigerator for up to three days. As the flavors meld together in the jars, they actually become more delicious over time. Just remember to give it a quick shake before serving to mix the layers again!

Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare several jars at once and store them in the fridge, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week. Just grab a jar when you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have a wholesome meal ready to go!

Conclusion

The Marinated Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Jars are truly a delightful way to enjoy fresh ingredients in a vibrant and convenient form. Each layer is packed with flavor, making it a fantastic option for any occasion. I encourage you to try making these jars for your next picnic or meal prep. You won’t regret the burst of freshness and taste they bring to your table!