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Greek Orzo Salad

Greek Orzo Salad

Greek Orzo Salad is a fresh, easy, and vibrant summer dish combining tender orzo pasta with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, tangy feta cheese, red onion, and fresh herbs tossed in a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing. Perfect for warm weather meals, this salad is light, healthy, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 medium cucumber, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, roughly chopped

Dressing Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the orzo quickly.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the orzo cooks, chop the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, roughly chop parsley and dill, and pit and halve the Kalamata olives if necessary.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper until the dressing is emulsified and bright in flavor.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Place the cooled orzo in a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped vegetables, olives, and fresh herbs. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and lightly toss again to distribute evenly.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve cold or at room temperature for a refreshing taste experience.

Notes

  • Cook orzo al dente to maintain a perfect texture without mushiness.
  • Rinse orzo with cold water to stop cooking and keep the salad fresh.
  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor in the dressing.
  • Add dressing gradually while tossing gently to avoid over-seasoning and breaking apart ingredients.
  • Keep the salad chilled to enhance the fresh flavors.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing is not recommended as it can alter texture and taste.
  • This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, avoid reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek Orzo Salad, Mediterranean salad, summer salad, orzo pasta salad, feta salad, healthy salad, easy salad recipe, vegetarian salad