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As the temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, the quest for refreshing meal options becomes paramount. Among the myriad of dishes that promise to satisfy during warm weather, cold salads stand out as a particularly inviting choice. One such delightful dish is the Chilled Mediterranean Bliss: Cold Chicken & Orzo Salad, a vibrant and flavorful combination that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This salad is not only a feast for the senses but also a nourishing meal that can be effortlessly prepared, making it ideal for summer picnics, casual lunch gatherings, or elegant dinner parties.

Cold Chicken & Orzo Salad

Experience the refreshing flavors of summer with Chilled Mediterranean Bliss: Cold Chicken & Orzo Salad. This vibrant dish combines tender chicken, al dente orzo, and a colorful mix of fresh vegetables, creating a nourishing meal that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or light dinners. Easy to prepare and packed with health benefits, this salad is as versatile as it is delicious. Enjoy the Mediterranean essence in every bite, and impress your guests with its delightful presentation!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked orzo pasta

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast (store-bought rotisserie chicken works perfectly)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced into small cubes

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Orzo: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Once done, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until it's well-blended and emulsified. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed.

      Mix the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled orzo that you set aside earlier. To this, add the shredded chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, sliced Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.

        Add the Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together using a spatula or large spoon until all ingredients are evenly coated and incorporated.

          Chill and Serve: Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve the salad cold, garnished with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch if desired.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | 4-6 servings

              Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. Drizzle a bit of extra olive oil before serving, and add a sprig of parsley on top of each serving as a finishing touch.