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Risoni/Orzo Salad with Crispy Salami Bits

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This Risoni (Orzo) Salad with Crispy Salami Bits is a bold and zesty pasta salad packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a punchy lemon-Dijon dressing. Crispy salami adds the perfect crunch to this quick, make-ahead dish — perfect for lunch, potlucks, or easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

  • 1½ cups risoni (orzo) pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for pasta)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup salami (thin slices or stick, finely chopped)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small cucumber, diced
  • ¼ red onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • For the Dressing:
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional Add-Ins:
  • Olives, capers, arugula, or roasted red peppers

Instructions

  1. Cook risoni in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil and set aside.
  2. In a hot skillet, cook chopped salami until golden and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooled risoni, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, herbs, and feta. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.
  5. Just before serving, sprinkle crispy salami bits on top to maintain crunch.

Notes

  • Keep the crispy salami separate until serving to preserve texture.
  • Use roasted chickpeas instead of salami for a vegetarian version.
  • Try sun-dried tomatoes, grilled zucchini, or other fresh herbs like dill or mint.
  • This salad travels well and is ideal for meal prep or packed lunches.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/risoni-orzo-salad-with-crispy-salami-bits/