Greek Orzo Salad – A Fresh and Flavorful Mediterranean Delight
When it comes to salads that burst with vibrant flavor and are packed with nutrients, the Greek Orzo Salad is hard to beat. 🧀🍅🇬🇷 This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines al dente orzo pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, zesty red onions, and the briny goodness of kalamata olives — all brought together by a tangy lemon-oregano vinaigrette and a sprinkle of creamy feta.
Perfect as a side dish, a light lunch, or even a picnic staple, this colorful and refreshing salad is ready in under 30 minutes. One bite and you’ll be transported to a sunny terrace in Santorini. ☀️🇬🇷
Ingredients
🍝 Base:
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
🥗 Vegetables:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- ½ cup red bell pepper diced
- ½ cup red onion finely chopped
🫒 Condiments:
- ½ cup kalamata olives sliced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
🧂 Seasonings:
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
🧀 Dairy:
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbled
🫒 Oils & Fats:
- ¼ cup olive oil extra virgin preferred
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add orzo and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually 8–10 minutes).
- Drain, rinse with cold water, and let cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Veggies
- While the orzo is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and olives.
- Crumble the feta cheese if not already crumbled.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together:
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Red wine vinegar
- Garlic powder
- Oregano
- Salt and pepper
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine cooled orzo, chopped vegetables, olives, and feta.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well coated.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes for best flavor.
- Garnish with extra feta or fresh oregano before serving.
Notes
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled as a side for grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or shrimp 🍤 Enjoy on its own as a light lunch or potluck dish Pair with a glass of crisp white wine or lemon-infused water 🍋 Top with grilled halloumi for a vegetarian main course 🔄 Variations
Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier dish Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or diced jalapeño Make It Vegan: Skip the feta or use a plant-based version Low-Carb Twist: Replace orzo with cauliflower rice or chopped zucchini Herby Boost: Add fresh dill, basil, or mint for a bright twist 🌿 🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days Reheating:
Best served cold or at room temperature. Do not microwave. ❓ 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different pasta?
Yes! Couscous, farro, or quinoa are great alternatives. 2. What’s the best olive to use?
Kalamata olives offer authentic Greek flavor, but green olives work too. 3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely — it tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld. 4. Is this salad gluten-free?
Not with traditional orzo, but you can use a gluten-free pasta or grain. 5. Can I add lemon zest?
Yes! It adds brightness to the vinaigrette. 6. What type of feta is best?
Use block feta in brine for best flavor and creaminess. 7. Can I skip the onion?
Sure — try using green onions or leaving it out entirely. 8. What protein works best?
Grilled chicken, tuna, or salmon are great choices. 9. Should I rinse the orzo?
Yes — rinsing stops the cooking and prevents sticking. 10. Can I add nuts?
Yes — pine nuts or sliced almonds add great crunch. 💡 Pro Tips
Chop veggies small for a better bite and even distribution Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, most authentic taste Toss with dressing just before serving to avoid sogginess Add feta last if you prefer chunks instead of creamy melt Chill it well — this salad tastes better cold! 🧊 🏁 Conclusion
Light, zesty, and packed with Mediterranean charm, this Greek Orzo Salad is your answer to warm-weather meals, quick lunches, or healthy sides. It’s versatile, nutritious, and bursting with texture and tang. Whether you’re meal-prepping, entertaining, or just treating yourself to something fresh — this salad never disappoints. 🌿🍅🫒
Serve chilled as a side for grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or shrimp 🍤 Enjoy on its own as a light lunch or potluck dish Pair with a glass of crisp white wine or lemon-infused water 🍋 Top with grilled halloumi for a vegetarian main course 🔄 Variations
Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier dish Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or diced jalapeño Make It Vegan: Skip the feta or use a plant-based version Low-Carb Twist: Replace orzo with cauliflower rice or chopped zucchini Herby Boost: Add fresh dill, basil, or mint for a bright twist 🌿 🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days Reheating:
Best served cold or at room temperature. Do not microwave. ❓ 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different pasta?
Yes! Couscous, farro, or quinoa are great alternatives. 2. What’s the best olive to use?
Kalamata olives offer authentic Greek flavor, but green olives work too. 3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely — it tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld. 4. Is this salad gluten-free?
Not with traditional orzo, but you can use a gluten-free pasta or grain. 5. Can I add lemon zest?
Yes! It adds brightness to the vinaigrette. 6. What type of feta is best?
Use block feta in brine for best flavor and creaminess. 7. Can I skip the onion?
Sure — try using green onions or leaving it out entirely. 8. What protein works best?
Grilled chicken, tuna, or salmon are great choices. 9. Should I rinse the orzo?
Yes — rinsing stops the cooking and prevents sticking. 10. Can I add nuts?
Yes — pine nuts or sliced almonds add great crunch. 💡 Pro Tips
Chop veggies small for a better bite and even distribution Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, most authentic taste Toss with dressing just before serving to avoid sogginess Add feta last if you prefer chunks instead of creamy melt Chill it well — this salad tastes better cold! 🧊 🏁 Conclusion
Light, zesty, and packed with Mediterranean charm, this Greek Orzo Salad is your answer to warm-weather meals, quick lunches, or healthy sides. It’s versatile, nutritious, and bursting with texture and tang. Whether you’re meal-prepping, entertaining, or just treating yourself to something fresh — this salad never disappoints. 🌿🍅🫒