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An overhead shot of a large bowl of Mediterranean pasta salad with orzo, ready to be served.

Orzo Salad (The Ultimate Mediterranean Recipe)

This vibrant Mediterranean orzo salad with feta, cucumber, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette is the perfect quick and easy side dish for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb Orzo Pasta
  • 1 English Cucumber chopped
  • 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 Red Onion finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives halved
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese crumbled
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley chopped
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Dill chopped
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar
  • 1 clove Garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper or to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Large Pot
  • 1 Large Bowl
  • 1 Whisk

Method
 

  1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta well and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. Prepare the Vinaigrette: While the orzo is cooking, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
  3. Chop the Vegetables: Chop the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs.
  4. Combine Everything: In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked and cooled orzo, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, kalamata olives, feta cheese, parsley, and dill.
  5. Dress and Serve: Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine everything. For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the orzo to absorb the dressing.

Notes

Tip 1: Don't overcook the orzo. Cooking it al dente is key to preventing a mushy salad.
Tip 2: Use a block of feta in brine for the best flavor and creamiest texture.
Tip 3: Let the salad marinate for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.