TOASTED ORZO SALAD

Toasted Orzo Salad image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Time 40m

Yield 6 to 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 10

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 cups orzo
Kosher salt
One 3-inch strip lemon zest
1 cup quartered grape tomatoes, optional
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (about 2 1/2 ounces)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
2 tablespoons small capers, rinsed and drained
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Steps:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the orzo and cook, stirring, until golden, about 3 minutes. Add 3 cups water, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and the lemon zest and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium, cover and cook, stirring occasionally, 10 minutes. Uncover and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the heat.
2. Transfer the orzo to a large mixing bowl, remove the lemon zest and let cool about 10 minutes. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons oil, tomatoes, if using, feta cheese, parsley, capers, dill and lemon juice. Season with additional salt and pepper. Serve warm or at room temperature.