MEDITERRANEAN ORZO SALAD

As soon as the weather warms up, pasta salad becomes one of my top choices. It’s my go-to for potlucks and barbecues, a simple and satisfying option for lunch, and the perfect solution for those scorching midsummer evenings when only a cold meal will do.

This year, I’ll be making this Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad on repeat. It’s quick to prepare and packed with vibrant, fresh ingredients like cucumbers, roasted red peppers, artichokes, and tangy feta—flavors I never grow tired of. I have a feeling it’s about to become your favorite, too!

INGREDIENTS

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
  • 12 ounces dried orzo pasta (about 2 cups)
  • 1 (12-ounce) jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 1 (12-ounce) jar roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
  • 1/2 large English cucumber, diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves, coarsely chopped
  • 6 ounces crumbled feta cheese (about 1 1/2 cups)

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, kosher salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Set aside.
  • Cook the orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until al dente, 7 to 9 minutes or according to the package instructions. Drain the orzo and rinse briefly under cool water to stop the cooking. Drain well.
  • Assemble the salad: Add the cooked orzo, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, cucumber, red onion, and olives to the bowl with the dressing. Toss until evenly combined.
  • Add parsley and feta: Gently mix in the parsley and crumbled feta. Let the salad sit for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Season and serve: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.

NOTES

  • Make ahead: Prepare the pasta salad up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to remove the chill.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

TOP 11 TRAVEL OUTFIT IDEAS FOR WOMEN

Traveling is one of life’s greatest pleasures, offering the chance to explore new places, create unforgettable memories, and broaden our horizons. A crucial element of enjoying your travels is feeling comfortable and confident in your clothing. In this guide, we’ll explore the best travel outfits for women, featuring a range of styles and preferences to help you look and feel your best throughout your journey.

Travel T-Shirt

A high-quality travel t-shirt is a comfortable and casual option for days spent exploring or relaxing. Choose one made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or a moisture-wicking blend. Opt for neutral colors or a variety of shades to easily mix and match with other items in your wardrobe.

Short Top

A short top is a versatile addition to any travel wardrobe. It can be dressed up with a skirt or worn casually with jeans or shorts. Choose one made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen in a neutral color, making it easy to mix and match with other pieces in your outfit.

Convertible Travel Pants

Convertible travel pants provide the versatility of both pants and shorts in one garment. They can be easily transformed into shorts by zipping off the lower portion of the legs. Made from lightweight, wrinkle-resistant, and fast-drying materials, these pants are an ideal choice for travelers seeking practicality and comfort.

Maxi Dress / Skirt

A maxi dress or skirt is a versatile and stylish choice for traveling, providing a breezy and feminine look while exploring new destinations. Choose a design that can easily be dressed up or down and paired with comfortable flats or sandals. Opt for lightweight, wrinkle-resistant fabric to keep you looking

Women’s Travel Shirts

Travel shirts are an essential component of any travel wardrobe. Look for shirts crafted from lightweight, wrinkle-resistant, and moisture-wicking materials to stay cool and comfortable during your journey. It’s a good idea to include a mix of short-sleeve and long-sleeve options to accommodate varying weather conditions and dress codes.

Cardigan

A lightweight cardigan is a versatile layering piece that can be easily dressed up or down. Opt for one in a neutral color and breathable fabric like cotton or linen. It can be worn over dresses, paired with tops, or even styled with leggings for an extra touch of comfort and style.

Scarf Or Shawl

A stylish scarf or shawl is an essential travel accessory. It not only adds a touch of elegance to any outfit but also serves as a versatile item that can be used to cover up at religious sites or keep warm during cool evenings. Opt for one made from lightweight, wrinkle-resistant materials like viscose or silk for easy packing and comfort.

Leggings

Leggings are a comfortable and stylish addition to any travel outfit. They can be worn under skirts, dresses, or tunics for added coverage or paired with a longer top for a casual, athletic look. Opt for leggings made from stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric to ensure maximum comfort and easy care during your travels.

Shoes

Comfortable shoes are essential for travel, especially when you’ll be doing a lot of walking or sightseeing. Look for flats, sandals, or sneakers that offer good arch support and cushioning to keep your feet comfortable throughout the day. Choosing a neutral color will allow you to pair them easily with a variety of outfits.

Lightweight Women’s Jacket

A lightweight jacket is a must-have for any travel wardrobe. Look for one that can be easily folded and packed without taking up much space. Choose a style that is both flattering and comfortable, made from breathable, water-resistant material to safeguard against unexpected weather conditions.

Travel Purse

A key accessory for any travel outfit is a travel purse. This essential item should be compact, lightweight, and secure to hold your valuables like your passport, wallet, and phone. Look for a purse with multiple compartments and zippers for better organization, and consider one with a crossbody strap for added security while you’re on the go.

conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right travel outfits can significantly enhance your journey, making it both comfortable and stylish. By incorporating versatile pieces such as short tops, travel shirts, leggings, and maxi dresses, you can create a wardrobe that caters to various occasions and climates. Don’t forget the importance of accessories like a travel purse and stylish scarves, as well as comfortable shoes that provide support during long days of exploration. With these essentials in your travel arsenal, you’ll be well-prepared to embrace new experiences and create lasting memories on your adventures. Safe travels!