Description
This refreshing Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a simple yet vibrant dish bursting with fresh flavors. Juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, briny Kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese are tossed with tender orzo pasta and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for quick lunches, BBQs, or potlucks, this healthy and easy salad is a crowd-pleaser you’ll make again and again!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cucumber, diced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried oregano)
- For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Let it drain completely.
- While the orzo cools, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, slice the red onion, and chop the olives, parsley, and oregano.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, feta cheese, parsley, and oregano.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve cold and enjoy!
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute orzo with quinoa or rice-based pasta.
- Add extra protein by tossing in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry after storage, add a splash of olive oil and lemon juice before serving.
- This recipe tastes even better after resting, so feel free to make it ahead of time for parties or meal prep!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: Tossed, No-Bake
- Cuisine: Mediterranean