Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Greek Orzo Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish that’s perfect for warm weather or as a vibrant side. Packed with crisp vegetables, tangy feta, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, it’s easy to prepare and sure to please.

A white bowl filled with a colorful orzo pasta salad showing multiple layers: the base layer is light golden orzo pasta mixed with dark purple sliced olives, bright red halved cherry tomatoes, and chunks of green cucumber. Scattered throughout are small pieces of white feta cheese and fresh dark green arugula leaves with hints of chopped red onion adding tiny purple bits. A wooden spoon is partially dipped into the salad on the right side. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 10 ounces orzo pasta (about 3 cups cooked)
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
  • 1 cup English cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced in half
  • 3 tablespoons red onion, diced
  • 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 cups baby arugula
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon vinaigrette (prepared)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, red onion, crumbled feta, baby arugula, dill, and parsley.
  2. Step 2: Pour the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to evenly coat all ingredients.
  3. Step 3: Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh flavors.

Tips & Variations

  • For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
  • Use fresh herbs like mint or oregano for a different herbal note.
  • If you prefer, substitute arugula with baby spinach or mixed greens.
  • Make the lemon vinaigrette by whisking together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture, add the arugula and vinaigrette just before serving if storing leftovers. Re-toss the salad gently to recoat before serving.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a colorful orzo salad shows three main layers: a base of small, light yellow orzo pasta with a smooth texture, mixed evenly with bright green arugula leaves scattered throughout as the second layer. On top, there are chunky, fresh pieces of red cherry tomatoes, dark purple olives, crisp green cucumber slices, and small white feta cheese crumbles adding variety in color and texture. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl, partially covered by the salad. The bowl sits on a black and white checkered cloth over a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like couscous, quinoa, or small shells work well if you don’t have orzo.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

It is, but keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to keep the vegetables crisp and fresh.

Print
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Greek Orzo Salad Recipe


  • Author: Harry
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A refreshing and vibrant Greek Orzo Salad combining tender orzo pasta with fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and peppery baby arugula, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for Mediterranean-inspired meals.


Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 10 ounces Orzo Pasta (about 3 cups cooked)
  • 1/2 cup Cherry Tomatoes, sliced in half
  • 1 cup English Cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives, sliced in half
  • 3 Tablespoons Red Onion, diced
  • 1/3 cup Feta Cheese, crumbled
  • 2 cups Baby Arugula
  • 2 Tablespoons Fresh Dill, chopped
  • 2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped

Lemon Vinaigrette

  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 3 Tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1 Garlic Clove, minced
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo: Boil the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool down, then set aside.
  2. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced Kalamata olives, diced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, baby arugula, chopped fresh dill, and chopped fresh parsley.
  3. Prepare Lemon Vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper to taste until emulsified.
  4. Toss the Salad: Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
  5. Serve: Transfer the salad to serving bowls or a platter and enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use fresh herbs and high-quality feta cheese.
  • The salad can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, but add the arugula just before serving to maintain its texture.
  • Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
  • If Kalamata olives are too strong, substitute with green olives or omit.
  • Adjust the lemon vinaigrette seasoning to taste, adding a pinch of sugar if desired to balance acidity.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Greek

Keywords: Greek Orzo Salad, Mediterranean salad, orzo pasta salad, feta cheese salad, lemon vinaigrette, healthy salad

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