Cranberry & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad
Cranberry & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad is a bright, satisfying dish that balances sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors in every bite. Tender orzo pasta forms the base, while dried cranberries add bursts of sweetness and goat cheese brings a soft, tangy contrast. Fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and a light Mediterranean-style dressing tie everything together without weighing it down. This salad works beautifully as a side dish, a light lunch, or part of a larger spread. It is especially great for gatherings because it holds up well and tastes even better after the flavors have had time to mingle.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 15 minutes (optional)
Total Time: About 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
Orzo Salad
Orzo pasta: 300 g
Olive oil: 3 tablespoons
Dried cranberries: ¾ cup
Goat cheese: 150 g, crumbled
Cucumber: 1 medium, diced
Red onion: ½ small, finely chopped
Baby spinach or arugula: 2 cups, lightly chopped
Fresh parsley: ¼ cup, finely chopped
Toasted walnuts or pecans (optional): ½ cup
Dressing
Extra virgin olive oil: ¼ cup
Fresh lemon juice: 3 tablespoons
Honey: 1½ teaspoons
Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon
Salt: ¾ teaspoon
Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo until just tender.
Drain the orzo well and drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking.
Spread the orzo on a tray and let it cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine cooled orzo, dried cranberries, cucumber, red onion, and greens.
Add chopped parsley and toasted nuts, if using.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss gently to coat.
Crumble goat cheese over the salad.
Gently fold to distribute without breaking the cheese too much.
Taste, adjust seasoning, and chill briefly before serving if desired.
Tips for Best Results
Salt the pasta water generously for better flavor.
Do not overcook the orzo; it should stay slightly firm.
Cool the orzo before adding goat cheese to prevent melting.
Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter dressing.
Chop vegetables evenly for balanced texture.
Toast nuts lightly to enhance their flavor.
Add greens just before serving to keep them fresh.
Toss gently to maintain the salad’s structure.
Taste again after resting and adjust seasoning.
Store dressing separately if making far ahead.
Variations
Add orange zest for a citrus note.
Swap cranberries with dried cherries or apricots.
Use feta instead of goat cheese.
Add roasted sweet potatoes for heartiness.
Stir in grilled chicken for a complete meal.
Use pine nuts instead of walnuts.
Add chopped olives for a savory touch.
Replace spinach with fresh basil.
Use balsamic vinegar instead of lemon juice.
Make it vegan by skipping cheese and adding avocado.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better after a few hours.
Does orzo get mushy?
Not if cooked al dente and cooled properly.
Can I serve it warm?
It is best slightly chilled or at room temperature.
What protein pairs well with this salad?
Grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas.
Can I use fresh cranberries?
Dried cranberries work best for balance.
How long does it keep?
Up to 3 days refrigerated.
Is goat cheese very strong?
It is mild and creamy in this salad.
Can I reduce sweetness?
Yes, reduce honey or cranberries slightly.
Can I use whole wheat orzo?
Yes, it works well and adds fiber.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Use gluten-free orzo if needed.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 360
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Protein: 10 g
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 320 mg
Conclusion
Cranberry & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad is a fresh, flavorful dish that feels both light and satisfying. The contrast of sweet cranberries, creamy goat cheese, and tender orzo makes it versatile enough for everyday meals and special occasions alike. With simple ingredients and flexible variations, this salad is easy to adapt and always a crowd-pleaser. Once you add it to your rotation, it is sure to become a go-to favorite for effortless Mediterranean-style eating.