Name: Roasted Cauliflower, Feta, and Orzo Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 small head cauliflower (broken into small florets (about 5 cups)); 4 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced); 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled); 2/3 cup dried cherries; 4 cups baby spinach; 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon honey; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)

This Roasted Cauliflower, Feta, and Orzo Salad is a delightful medley of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance. Perfectly roasted cauliflower, tangy feta cheese, and chewy orzo come together in a vibrant dish that is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a potluck favorite, this salad is sure to impress.

The combination of roasted cauliflower and earthy feta pairs beautifully with the sweetness of dried cherries and the freshness of baby spinach. Drizzled with a zesty dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard, this salad is a harmonious blend that can be enjoyed warm or cold. Let’s dive into why this recipe is so reliable and how you can make it at home.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Roasted Cauliflower, Feta, and Orzo Salad is reliable for several reasons. First, it utilizes simple, accessible ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. Second, the recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Lastly, it can easily be customized to suit your preferences. Want to add more veggies? Go ahead! Prefer a different cheese? No problem! This salad is versatile enough to accommodate your culinary creativity.

What Goes In

To create this flavorful salad, you will need the following ingredients:

1 small head cauliflower, broken into small florets (about 5 cups)
4 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup orzo pasta
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
2/3 cup dried cherries
4 cups baby spinach
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (for dressing)
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Cook’s Kit

To prepare this delicious Roasted Cauliflower, Feta, and Orzo Salad, make sure you have the following kitchen tools ready:

Large baking sheet for roasting the cauliflower
Medium pot for cooking the orzo
Mixing bowl for combining the salad ingredients
Whisk for preparing the dressing
Knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables

Cook Roasted Cauliflower, Feta, and Orzo Salad Like This

Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper until well coated. Spread the cauliflower evenly on a large baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the florets are golden brown and tender. Stir halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

While the cauliflower is roasting, bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the orzo and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted cauliflower, cooked orzo, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, dried cherries, and baby spinach. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well coated.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

This Roasted Cauliflower, Feta, and Orzo Salad can be served warm or chilled. If you’re serving it later, cover it and refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy this delightful dish as a light lunch or alongside your favorite protein for dinner!

If You’re Out Of…

If you find yourself missing an ingredient, fear not! Here are some alternatives:

If you don’t have cauliflower, broccoli or Brussels sprouts make a great substitute.
Feta cheese can be replaced with goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture.
Dried cherries can be swapped for cranberries or raisins for a different flavor profile.
Orzo can be replaced with quinoa or couscous for a gluten-free option.

Testing Timeline

For best results, follow this timeline when preparing your Roasted Cauliflower, Feta, and Orzo Salad:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Roasting Cauliflower: 25-30 minutes
Cooking Orzo: 10 minutes
Mixing Ingredients: 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

To ensure the best taste and texture, follow these storage guidelines:

Refrigerate the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the roasted cauliflower and orzo separately, but the salad is best enjoyed fresh as the spinach and feta may not freeze well.
To reheat, gently warm the cauliflower and orzo in a pan over low heat, then mix with the fresh ingredients just before serving.

Reader Q&A

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Roasted Cauliflower, Feta, and Orzo Salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just add the spinach right before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty bean dish for a complete meal. It also makes a great side dish for barbecues or family gatherings.

Can I use other vegetables in this salad?

Yes! Feel free to add other roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for added flavor and nutrition.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes, this Roasted Cauliflower, Feta, and Orzo Salad is perfect for meal prep! Just store the dressing separately until you’re ready to eat to avoid sogginess.

Save & Share

If you love this Roasted Cauliflower, Feta, and Orzo Salad as much as we do, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Whether you post it on social media or share it via email, spreading the love for this nutritious and delicious dish is sure to inspire others to try it. Tag us when you make it, and let us know your favorite variations!

This Roasted Cauliflower, Feta, and Orzo Salad is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. With its beautiful colors and vibrant flavors, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the palate. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a dish that brings people together and makes any meal feel special. Embrace the joy of cooking and enjoy every bite of this delightful salad!