Orzo Garbanzo Greek Salad

Lunch can get boring... it seems like we all tend to gravitate toward the good ole sandwich. But how many times can you really choke down turkey & cheese on bread? It gets boring... especially for those who pack a lunch for work - options seem limited.

My husband has a job where he has to eat lunch on the go and doesn't have access to a microwave or fridge. So, I've had to get creative with the meals I pack him in order to keep him away from the golden arches.... haha!

Cold pasta salads are a great way to get in veggies, whole grains & protein. They also stay well when packed for later (as long as you don't leave it in a hot car... here in SLC we don't have much heat this time of year ;-)).

Last night I made a large batch of Orzo Garbanzo Greek Salad and wow is it good!

Orzo is small like rice, but has the taste of pasta. You can get whole grain, rice, spinach and other varieties of this pasta depending on your needs and tastes. We use it in soups, as a side dish, in pastas, salads, etc.. Give it a whirl by trying out this recipe...

ORZO GARBANZO GREEK SALAD
Makes 4-6 servings (depending if you're having it as a meal or side dish)
What you need:
1/2C uncooked orzo
1 can garbanzo beans
1 small cucumber, diced
1 Roma tomato, diced
1/2 bell pepper, diced (I used an orange pepper)
1/2C sliced olives
1/2C feta cheese
3TBSP balsamic vinegar
2TBSP olive oil
lemon juice (from 1/2 lemon)
salt, pepper, oregano to taste

How to:
Cook orzo according to package. Cool. In meantime, chop veggies. Combine everything in a large bowl.

*Garbanzo beans, orzo and feta give this dish a real boost of protein, but if you want more... you can add in some grilled chicken or deli ham.