Cherry Martini Cranberry Orzo Salad (Printable Version)

Orzo salad with cherries and cranberries, fresh herbs, and a playful cake-inspired presentation.

# What You'll Need:

→ Orzo Salad

01 - 1 1/4 cups orzo pasta
02 - 1 cup dried cranberries
03 - 1/2 cup pitted cherries, halved
04 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
05 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
06 - 1/3 cup finely chopped red onion
07 - 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
08 - Zest of 1 lemon

→ Dressing

09 - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
10 - 2 tablespoons cherry juice
11 - 2 tablespoons cranberry juice
12 - 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
13 - 1 teaspoon honey
14 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
15 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Silly Cake Presentation

16 - 1 small round cake mold or bowl
17 - 1/2 cup whipped cream cheese or plain Greek yogurt
18 - 2 tablespoons maraschino cherry syrup (optional)
19 - Maraschino cherries for garnish
20 - Mint leaves for garnish
21 - Extra cranberries for garnish

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled orzo, dried cranberries, halved pitted cherries, chopped mint, parsley, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and lemon zest.
03 - In a separate bowl or small jar, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, cherry juice, cranberry juice, red wine vinegar, honey, sea salt, and black pepper until the mixture is fully emulsified.
04 - Drizzle the dressing over the orzo salad mixture and gently toss until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
05 - Line a small round cake mold or bowl with plastic wrap. Firmly pack the dressed salad mixture into the mold, pressing gently to ensure stability. Chill for at least 15 minutes for shape retention.
06 - Invert the chilled salad mold onto a serving plate. Spread whipped cream cheese or Greek yogurt smoothly over the surface to mimic cake frosting. Drizzle maraschino cherry syrup over the exterior if desired.
07 - Arrange maraschino cherries, mint leaves, and extra cranberries on top for a playful, cake-like appearance.
08 - Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready. Slice for presentation if desired.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Easily uses mostly pantry and fridge staples
  • Gorgeous and memorable centerpiece for parties
  • Ready in about half an hour from start to finish
  • Whimsical presentation always puts a smile on guests’ faces
  • Vibrant blend of flavors with a fresh finish
02 -
  • Packed with antioxidants and fiber from berries and herbs
  • Easy to make ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours
  • Makes any ordinary meal feel like a special event
03 -
  • Do not skip rinsing the cooked orzo in cold water This stops further cooking so the texture is perfect
  • When unmolding work quickly while the salad is very chilled for the prettiest shape
  • If you want to add vodka to the dressing make it only for adults and add it in moderation so the flavor does not overwhelm the salad

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