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Mediterranean Orzo Salad

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This vibrant Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish filled with tender orzo pasta, crisp vegetables, feta cheese, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or picnic favorite, this salad brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

  • 1 1/2 cups dry orzo pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh spinach, chopped (optional)

For the Lemon Vinaigrette:

  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  • Cook the Orzo:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

  • Prepare the Vegetables:
    While the orzo cooks, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, parsley, and spinach.

  • Make the Dressing:
    In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

  • Assemble the Salad:
    In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, vegetables, feta cheese, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

 

  • Chill and Serve:
    For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. Stir again before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

  • Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
  • This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Try adding artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or capers for more Mediterranean flavor.