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🥗 Greek Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe – Fresh, Healthy, and Full of Flavor!

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If you’re looking for a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for summer picnics, BBQs, or just a light meal, then Greek Orzo Pasta Salad is exactly what you need. Combining the versatility of orzo pasta with the vibrant, tangy flavors of Mediterranean ingredients, this salad is a perfect balance of fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and a zesty homemade dressing.

This easy-to-make dish is ideal as a side, but it can also stand alone as a light, healthy main course. The cool, crisp veggies—such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions—are complemented perfectly by the salty feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a refreshing lemon-oregano dressing. It’s a colorful, nutrient-packed salad that’s bursting with Mediterranean goodness!

Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, packing it for lunch, or bringing it to a potluck, Greek Orzo Pasta Salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

🔧 Recipe Preparation Equipment

To prepare this salad, you’ll need:

  • Large pot for cooking the orzo
  • Large mixing bowl for tossing the salad
  • Whisk (for the dressing)
  • Cutting board and sharp knife (for chopping the veggies)
  • Measuring spoons (for dressing ingredients)
  • Strainer (for rinsing the orzo)
  • Serving bowl for presenting the salad

🛒 Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious Greek Orzo Pasta Salad:

For the Salad:

  • 1 ½ cups orzo pasta (uncooked)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled or cubed
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

🍽️ How to Make Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

This Greek Orzo Pasta Salad is incredibly easy to make and comes together in just a few steps.

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Once cooked, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the orzo is cooking, prepare your vegetables. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. If you haven’t already, slice the Kalamata olives and chop the parsley.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, and minced garlic. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like a tangier dressing, feel free to add more lemon juice or vinegar.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Once the orzo has cooled, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add in the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and chopped parsley. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to combine, making sure everything is well-coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This salad can be made in advance, making it a perfect option for meal prep or parties. Before serving, give it another quick toss to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed.

🌈 Variations

🧀 Vegan Greek Orzo Salad

To make a vegan version of this salad, simply swap out the feta cheese for plant-based feta or omit it entirely. You can also add extra chickpeas for protein and creaminess.

🥬 Add More Greens

For an extra dose of vegetables, try adding chopped spinach or arugula to the salad. These leafy greens pair wonderfully with the Mediterranean flavors of the salad.

🌶️ Spicy Greek Orzo Salad

For a bit of heat, add some sliced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing. This will give the salad a spicy kick while still keeping the Mediterranean flavors intact.

🥩 Add Grilled Chicken

Turn this Greek Orzo Pasta Salad into a main dish by adding grilled chicken. Simply grill chicken breasts with olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano, then slice them thin and toss them into the salad.

🧑‍🍳 Cooking Notes

  • Al Dente Orzo: Be sure to cook the orzo until it’s al dente. Overcooking it will make the pasta mushy, and that’s not the texture we’re aiming for in this salad.
  • Chill Time: Letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors come together, but if you’re in a rush, it’s still delicious right away.
  • Dress Right Before Serving: If you plan to make this salad in advance, keep the dressing separate and toss it in just before serving to prevent the salad from getting soggy.

🍴 Serving Suggestions

This Greek Orzo Pasta Salad pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes:

  • Grilled meats: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, lamb, or beef for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
  • Seafood: It also complements seafood dishes like grilled shrimp, salmon, or tuna.
  • Flatbreads or pita: Serve with warm pita or flatbreads to make a complete Mediterranean meal.
  • More salads: Pair it with a side of fresh Greek salad or a Caprese salad for a light and vibrant meal.

💡 Helpful Tips

  • Make it in advance: Greek Orzo Pasta Salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It’s perfect for meal prep or making ahead for parties.
  • Add protein: Add chickpeas or grilled chicken to make it more filling and turn it into a complete meal.
  • Make it gluten-free: If you’re gluten-sensitive, swap out the orzo for gluten-free pasta.

⏱️ Prep & Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

📊 Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbs: 26g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Vitamin C: 20% DV
  • Potassium: 8% DV

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! If you can’t find orzo, any small pasta shape like ditalini, farfalle, or penne would work well in this salad.

Q: Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any Mediterranean vegetables like roasted red peppers, artichokes, or even zucchini for extra flavor and texture.

Q: How long will this salad keep?

Greek Orzo Pasta Salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

✅ Conclusion

This Greek Orzo Pasta Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines all the best elements of Mediterranean cuisine in one bowl. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, creamy feta, tangy olives, and a zesty dressing, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, as a light lunch, or as a side for grilled meats, it’s sure to be a hit!

Try making this refreshing salad today, and enjoy the flavors of Greece right in your own home!

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