Hearty Mediterranean Roasted Vegetable Orzo Salad

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The Hearty Mediterranean Roasted Vegetable Orzo Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion. Combining a rainbow of roasted vegetables, wholesome orzo pasta, and a zesty lemon dressing, this salad is not only delicious but also visually stunning. It’s a great main course or a delightful side dish, packed with Mediterranean flavors and fresh ingredients.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 medium eggplant, chopped
– 1 zucchini, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
– 1 red onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For the Lemon Dressing:
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss the eggplant, zucchini, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and basil until the vegetables are well-coated.
3. Spread the vegetables evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well-combined to make the lemon dressing.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted vegetables, cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
7. Pour the lemon dressing over the salad and gently toss to mix everything together.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
9. Serve the salad warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your Hearty Mediterranean Roasted Vegetable Orzo Salad!