Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish filled with vibrant vegetables, tender orzo pasta, and a tangy lemon dressing. This salad is perfect as a side dish, a light lunch, or even as a meal prep option. Packed with fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and feta cheese, this dish brings the bright and zesty flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Healthy and fresh: Filled with vegetables and Mediterranean flavors.
• Perfect for meal prep: Stays fresh for days, ideal for lunchboxes.
• Versatile: Great as a side dish or a main meal.
• Ideal for gatherings: A crowd-pleaser for picnics, potlucks, and barbecues.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad

• 1 ½ cups dry orzo pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional)

For the Lemon Dressing

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Prepare the Orzo

1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Set Aside: Transfer the cooked orzo to a large mixing bowl and drizzle with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Dressing

3. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Salad

4. Combine Ingredients: Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, chickpeas, olives, feta cheese, red onion, parsley, and mint to the bowl with the orzo.
5. Toss with Dressing: Pour the lemon dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients and evenly coat them with the dressing.
6. Chill and Serve: For best flavor, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more filling meal.
• Grain Swap: Use quinoa, couscous, or farro instead of orzo.
• Add More Veggies: Include bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or spinach.
• Make It Vegan: Omit the feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Herby Twist: Add fresh dill or basil for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is needed.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the fresh vegetables and pasta may become mushy when thawed.

FAQs

Can I make Mediterranean Orzo Salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep and actually tastes better as the flavors meld together.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking together?

Rinse the cooked orzo under cold water and toss it with a small amount of olive oil.

What other dressings can I use?

A simple balsamic vinaigrette or Greek dressing also pairs well with this salad.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta work well too.

How do I make the salad more filling?

Add a protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even canned tuna.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Orzo is typically made from wheat, so use gluten-free orzo or substitute with quinoa for a gluten-free option.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

You can use dried herbs, but reduce the amount by half since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Can I add a crunch to the salad?

Yes, add toasted pine nuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for extra texture.

What can I serve with Mediterranean Orzo Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, pita bread, hummus, or as part of a larger Mediterranean-inspired spread.

How do I keep the salad fresh for longer?

Store the salad without the dressing and mix it in just before serving to maintain freshness.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a bright and delicious dish that brings the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen. With its colorful vegetables, tangy lemon dressing, and tender orzo, this salad is as beautiful as it is tasty. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for everything from light lunches to picnic sides. Try this recipe for a refreshing and healthy addition to your mealtime rotation!

Print