This bright and fresh Mediterranean Orzo Salad is packed with tasty veggies like cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives, all mixed with chewy orzo pasta. It’s a colorful dish that can make any meal feel special!
You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for lunch or a light dinner. I love to add a sprinkle of feta on top—who doesn’t love a bit of cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta shape is key to the texture of the salad. If you’re gluten-free, you can use rice or gluten-free orzo instead.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and burst in your mouth! Alternatively, diced regular tomatoes will work well but may have a bit less sweetness.
Cucumber: English cucumbers are great since they have fewer seeds and a crisp texture. If you prefer, you can substitute with bell peppers for extra color.
Kalamata Olives: They add a lovely briny taste. If they’re hard to find, black olives or even green olives can be a good substitute.
Feta Cheese: This cheese gives a tangy flavor. You could swap it for goat cheese or omit it to make the salad dairy-free.
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo might seem straightforward, but there are a few tips to perfect it. You want it tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Always salt your boiling water; it helps flavor the pasta.
- Cook according to package instructions but check for doneness a minute early to avoid overcooking.
- Once drained, rinse the orzo under cold water to stop cooking. Make sure it’s well-drained before adding to the salad.
By following these tips, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying Mediterranean Orzo Salad that’s great for lunches and gatherings!
Easy Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Components:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in less than an hour, you’ll have a delicious and refreshing salad ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 7 to 9 minutes or until the pasta is al dente (tender but still firm to the bite). Once it’s cooked, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Make sure to drain it well so it doesn’t get soggy!
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, Kalamata olives, finely chopped red onion, and fresh chopped parsley. These colorful veggies will give the salad a fresh and vibrant look.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing will bring all those lovely flavors together!
4. Toss It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture. With a gentle touch, toss everything together until it’s evenly coated. Then, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and give it a light toss to mix it in, keeping some for garnishing later.
5. Adjust Seasoning and Chill:
Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed. Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time will allow all the delicious flavors to meld together, making every bite tasty!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your Mediterranean Orzo Salad is ready to serve! You can enjoy it cold or at room temperature. It makes a great quick lunch, side dish for grilled meats, or even a light dinner. Enjoy your fresh, colorful dish!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo can be used for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that it may require a slightly longer cooking time, so be sure to check the package instructions for best results.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as some of the dressing may settle at the bottom.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with crumbled goat cheese, or for a dairy-free option, try chickpeas for added protein and creaminess!
Can This Salad Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it up to a day in advance, just be sure to add the feta cheese right before serving to keep it fresh and prevent it from getting soggy.
