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Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad

Refreshing Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad for Easy Summer Meals

A vibrant Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad, perfect for summer meals, combining fresh veggies, feta, and a zesty dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo Use whole wheat or tri-color orzo for added nutrients or visual appeal.
  • 1 cup Tomatoes Diced; substitute with cherry tomatoes halved for a sweeter flavor.
  • 1 cup Cucumbers Diced; use English cucumbers for less moisture.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion Finely diced for subtlety.
  • 1/2 cup Olives Kalamata or green olives work well for variety.
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese Substitute with goat cheese for a different flavor or omit for a vegan option.
  • 2 tablespoons Dill Fresh herb flavor; substitute parsley or mint for a different touch.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Avocado oil can be used for a lighter option.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Vinegar can substitute for a different tang.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can replace garlic powder for a bolder taste.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • cutting board
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Colander
  • small bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by dicing the tomatoes and cucumbers into 1/2-inch pieces. Finely chop the red onion.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  4. Rinse the cooked orzo under cold running water to stop the cooking process and set aside until it reaches room temperature.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, feta, and dill. Stir gently.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
  7. Cover the bowl and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Rinse orzo after cooking to prevent stickiness. Let it cool completely before adding dressing for best texture.

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