Orzo Salad with Feta, Kalamata Olives, Dried Cherries*, and Toasted* Walnuts

I have all these ingredients here, so gonna make this tomorrow (along with a crock pot full of beans and ham - stay tuned for my recipe):
(serves 4)

Dressing:
2 T. white balsamic vinegar (you can find this at Trader Joe's)
1 T. EVOO
1 t. minced garlic
Kosher salt*
Freshly ground pepper*

Salad:
1/2 cup uncooked orzo
1 large tomato, chopped
1 med. red onion, chopped
1/3 cup crumbled feta
1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup dried cherries* (the original recipe called for dried cranberries)
1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup kalamata olives, chopped
2 T. fresh flat leaf parsley, chopped

To make dressing: Whisk together all 5 ingredients, and set aside. To make the salad: cook orzo according to pkg. directions; drain, rinse with cold water, and drain well* again. Combine orzo with rest of ingredients in a med. bowl. Add dressing, and toss to coat. Serve at room temp.
This is a good one for a tail gate - no mayo.

"We are pressured in every way, but not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair. When we get knocked down, we get up again!" Be strong!

Carpe Diem, and have FUN doing it!!!

Love,

MM