Mediterranean orzo salad

Prep Time: 10 minutes  | Cook Time: 30 minutes  | Total Time: 40 minutes |*Servings: 6 

Unlike most fruits, olives are high in fat and low in carbohydrates, making them a delicious and healthy addition to your meals. Not only do they have a unique flavour that can enhance the taste of many dishes, but they are also packed with nutrients that promote good health. 

Olives’ most notable health benefits are their high content of monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which promote heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Kalamata olives, in particular, are a good source of iron, calcium, and copper, which may reduce your risk of anemia, support your bone health, and improve your heart function. 

Overall, olives are a great food to include in your diet to promote good health and enjoy as a delicious snack or ingredient in your meals.

Nutritional information (per serving*): Calories: 233; Protein (8g); Total Fat (7g); Saturated Fat (1g); Unsaturated Fat (4g); Carbohydrates (37g); Fibre (7g); Sodium (211mg)

Ingredients

• 1 medium bell pepper (red or orange), diced
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 1 small eggplant, sliced  
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
• 1 lime or lemon, juiced
• ½ pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup canned lentils, drained and rinsed
• 6 Kalamata olives, pitted
• ¼ cup low-fat feta cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup basil, chopped 
• Dried Italian seasoning (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions