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Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad

Refreshing Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad for Delicious Gatherings

A vibrant Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad perfect for summer gatherings, showcasing fresh vegetables and tangy feta.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta substitute with any small pasta if needed
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes can swap for grape tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes
  • 1 cup diced Persian cucumbers use regular cucumbers or bell peppers if preferred
  • ½ cup finely chopped red onion consider using green onions for a milder flavor
  • ½ cup sliced Kalamata olives green olives make a perfect substitute or omit for lower-sodium
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese can be substituted with goat cheese or omitted for dairy-free
  • 1 bunch fresh parsley chopped for flavor
For the Dressing
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil avocado oil works well as a substitute
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar white wine vinegar or lemon juice can be good alternatives
  • ½ cup lemon juice brightens flavors beautifully
  • 1 clove garlic minced; garlic powder can be used as a backup
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Spatula
  • Whisk

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the orzo by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in 1 cup dry orzo pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water; set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. In the bowl with the cooled orzo, add 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, 1 cup diced Persian cucumbers, ½ cup finely chopped red onion, ½ cup sliced Kalamata olives, and ½ cup crumbled feta cheese. Gently fold the ingredients together with a spatula.
  3. Chop a handful of fresh parsley and sprinkle over the salad mixture. Mix the parsley into the ingredients without mashing.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, juice of half a lemon, and 1 minced garlic clove. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
  6. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 7gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Rinse orzo under cold water after cooking to prevent clumping. Customize with seasonal veggies. Serve chilled for the best flavor.

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