Comfort Food Classics

Cranberry and Goat Cheese Orzo Salad

By Emma :

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

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Cranberry and Goat Cheese Orzo Salad

If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor, this Cranberry and Goat Cheese Orzo Salad is exactly what you need! The combination of chewy orzo, tangy goat cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy almonds creates a perfectly balanced salad that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a holiday feast or enjoying it as a quick weekday lunch, this salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it comes together in just 20 minutes—ideal for busy days when you want something nutritious and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry and Goat Cheese Orzo Salad

  • Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for meal prep or last-minute meals.
  • Flavor-Packed – The sweet, tangy, creamy, and nutty elements combine to create an irresistible taste.
  • Nutritious & Satisfying – Loaded with fresh spinach, almonds, and cranberries for a healthy yet filling dish.
  • Great for Any Occasion – Serve it as a side dish for gatherings, a refreshing summer meal, or even a festive holiday treat!

What Does This Orzo Salad Taste Like?

This salad is an explosion of flavors and textures! The orzo provides a soft, pasta-like base, while the goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy contrast. The dried cranberries bring a natural sweetness that complements the toasty crunch of almonds. The balsamic and lemon dressing ties everything together with a bright, slightly tart finish.

Every bite is refreshing, satisfying, and incredibly delicious—the kind of dish that keeps you coming back for more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful orzo salad:

  • 1 cup orzo pasta – A small, rice-shaped pasta that absorbs flavors beautifully.
  • ½ cup dried cranberries – Adds natural sweetness and a chewy texture.
  • 3 oz goat cheese, crumbled – Creamy, tangy, and the perfect balance for the cranberries.
  • 2 cups baby spinach, chopped – Fresh greens add a pop of color and nutrients.
  • ¼ cup slivered almonds, toasted – For a crunchy, nutty contrast.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – Brings brightness and freshness.
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil – A smooth base for the dressing.
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar – Adds depth and slight acidity.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens up the entire dish.
  • 1 teaspoon honey – Balances the acidity with a touch of sweetness.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances all the flavors.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Large pot – To cook the orzo.
  • Colander – For draining and rinsing the pasta.
  • Small mixing bowl – For whisking the dressing.
  • Large mixing bowl – To toss all the ingredients together.
  • Whisk or fork – To mix the dressing.
  • Knife & cutting board – For chopping spinach and parsley.

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

Want to switch things up? Here are some easy swaps and fun additions to customize your salad:

  • Swap the Orzo: Use quinoa, couscous, or farro for a different texture.
  • Try Different Nuts: Walnuts or pecans work beautifully in place of almonds.
  • Make It Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free feta or goat cheese alternative.
  • Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make this a complete meal.
  • Boost the Greens: Try arugula or kale for a slightly peppery or hearty twist.

How to Make Cranberry and Goat Cheese Orzo Salad

Follow these simple steps to create this delicious orzo salad:

1. Cook the Orzo

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes). Once done, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

2. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

3. Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, dried cranberries, chopped spinach, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted almonds.

4. Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.

5. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

What to Serve with This Orzo Salad

This salad is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

  • As a Side Dish – Pair it with grilled chicken, salmon, or steak for a well-balanced meal.
  • With a Soup – Serve alongside a bowl of butternut squash soup or tomato basil soup.
  • As a Light Lunch – Enjoy it on its own or with a slice of crusty bread.
  • For Holiday Feasts – A great complement to roast turkey or ham!

Tips for Making the Best Orzo Salad

  • Rinse the Orzo: This removes excess starch and keeps the pasta from sticking together.
  • Toast the Almonds: A quick toast in a dry pan enhances their nutty flavor and adds extra crunch.
  • Dress Lightly at First: You can always add more dressing if needed!
  • Chill for Maximum Flavor: Letting the salad sit for 15-20 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Store Leftover Orzo Salad

  • In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!
  • Make Ahead Tip: If prepping in advance, keep the dressing separate and mix it in just before serving to keep the spinach fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, but add the goat cheese and dressing just before serving for the freshest taste.

2. Is orzo gluten-free?

No, orzo is a wheat-based pasta. For a gluten-free version, swap it with quinoa, rice, or gluten-free pasta.

3. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Dried cranberries work best for their sweetness and chewiness, but if using fresh, consider chopping them and adding a bit of honey to balance their tartness.

More Orzo Recipes You’ll Love!

Looking for more delicious orzo dishes? Check these out:

Final Thoughts: A Salad You’ll Make Again and Again!

This Cranberry and Goat Cheese Orzo Salad is the perfect mix of flavors and textures—sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy all in one bite!

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how you liked it! Leave a review, share your photos on Pinterest, or tag me on social media. Happy cooking! 😊

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Cranberry and Goat Cheese Orzo Salad

Cranberry and Goat Cheese Orzo Salad


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Cranberry and Goat Cheese Orzo Salad is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy flavors! Tender orzo pasta is tossed with dried cranberries, creamy goat cheese, toasted almonds, and fresh baby spinach, all drizzled with a zesty balsamic and lemon dressing. It’s a quick, 20-minute recipe that works as a side dish, light lunch, or a festive holiday salad.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • 3 oz goat cheese, crumbled
  • 2 cups baby spinach, chopped
  • ¼ cup slivered almonds, toasted
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Cook the Orzo – Boil salted water and cook orzo according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
  • Prepare the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Assemble the Salad – In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo, dried cranberries, chopped spinach, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted almonds.
  • Dress & Toss – Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  • Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with fresh parsley and enjoy chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Make it ahead – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add goat cheese and dressing just before serving.
  • Swap the nuts – Walnuts or pecans work great instead of almonds.
  • Add protein – Try grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
  • Gluten-free option – Substitute orzo with quinoa or gluten-free pasta.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook (after boiling orzo)
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: ~1 cup
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

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