Greek Orzo Salad Recipe
Greek orzo salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings together the best of Mediterranean flavors. This salad features tender orzo pasta mixed with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese. A simple dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs adds a fresh and zesty touch that makes every bite delicious.
What makes this salad so appealing is its versatility and ease of preparation. It can be served as a light lunch, a side dish for grilled meats, or even a main meal when you want something healthy and flavorful. With its colorful ingredients and bright flavors, Greek orzo salad is a great way to enjoy fresh, wholesome food any time of the year.
Why You Need This Recipe
Greek orzo salad is a quick and easy dish that fits well into any meal plan. It combines fresh vegetables and flavorful ingredients that make it both healthy and satisfying. The mix of tender pasta and tangy feta creates a balanced taste that keeps you coming back for more.
This recipe is also very flexible. You can enjoy it as a side or a main dish, and it stores well for leftovers. Whether you are looking for a light lunch or a colorful addition to your dinner, this salad offers a simple way to bring Mediterranean flavors to your table.
Ingredients
This Greek orzo salad uses fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious and healthy meal.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Orzo pasta | 1 cup (uncooked) | 200 |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup, halved | 25 |
| Cucumber | 1 cup, diced | 16 |
| Kalamata olives | 1/3 cup, sliced | 60 |
| Feta cheese | 1/2 cup, crumbled | 200 |
| Red onion | 1/4 cup, finely chopped | 15 |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons | 2 |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons | 360 |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | 8 |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 teaspoon | 1 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 |
Estimated Total Calories: 887 (Serves 4 to 6)
How to Prepare
Begin by cooking the orzo pasta in boiling salted water according to the package instructions until it is tender. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down. Set the orzo aside to drain completely.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo with halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced Kalamata olives, finely chopped red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to mix all the ingredients evenly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Chill the salad for at least 20 minutes for the flavors to blend well.
Pro Tips
Make sure the orzo is completely cooled before mixing it with the other ingredients. This helps keep the salad fresh and prevents the feta from melting. Rinsing the pasta with cold water right after cooking also stops it from becoming mushy.
Use high quality olive oil and fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. If you want to prepare the salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain the salad’s texture. Feel free to add extra herbs like dill or mint to give the salad a different twist.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Greek orzo salad pairs well with grilled chicken, lamb, or seafood for a complete meal. It also complements simple dishes like roasted vegetables or pita bread with hummus. For gatherings, serve it alongside a fresh Greek-style platter with tzatziki and dolmas.
To add extra texture and flavor, try topping the salad with toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds. Fresh herbs like mint or dill can brighten the dish even more. You can also add extra crumbled feta or a sprinkle of sumac for a tangy finish. These additions help make the salad more exciting and satisfying.
Conclusion
Greek orzo salad is a fresh and flavorful dish that brings the best of Mediterranean ingredients to your table. Its combination of tender pasta, crisp vegetables, olives, and creamy feta makes it both satisfying and light. This salad is easy to prepare and works well as a side or a main course.
With its bright lemon dressing and versatile ingredients, it fits perfectly into any meal or occasion. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or a colorful addition to dinner, this Greek orzo salad is a delicious choice that will quickly become a favorite.
