Greek Style Orzo Salad

hotdog2014

I was expecting macaroni or potato salad at the BBQ. What a nice surprise this Greek Style Orzo Salad was.  I was not the only who loved it. Here is the recipe my sister Marianne (she made this salad for us) gave me, hope you try it.

Orzo Salad – Greek Style
serves 6-8

1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
2 (6 ounce) cans
marinated artichoke hearts – chopped
1 large tomato, seeded and chopped
1 cucumber, seeded and chopped
1 red onion, chopped
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 (2 ounce) can black olives, drained
1/4 cup fresh parsley – chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper

Bring a large pot of  salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain. Drain artichoke hearts, reserving liquid marinade .  In large bowl combine pasta, artichoke hearts, tomato, cucumber, onion, feta, olives, parsley, lemon juice, oregano and lemon pepper. Toss, cover  and chill for 1 hour in refrigerator.Just before serving, drizzle reserved artichoke marinade over salad and toss gently.