This Orzo Salad recipe stands out as a vibrant, nutritious dish perfect for everyday meals.
Combining tender orzo pasta with fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and briny Kalamata olives, it offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures.
Easy Orzo Pasta Salad
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot
- 1 Colander
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl
- 1 Baking Sheet
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
- 1½ cups dry orzo pasta
- 1 batch Greek salad dressing see below
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 Persian cucumbers halved lengthwise and sliced into ¼-inch pieces
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas rinsed and drained
- 4 ounces feta cheese diced into ¼-inch cubes
- ⅓ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives
- 1 cup fresh basil and/or mint leaves roughly chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for tossing
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo Pasta: Bring a large pot filled with salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook until it is just a bit softer than al dente—this ensures it won't become mushy once chilled. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the pasta thoroughly using a colander.
- Cool and Prevent Clumping: Immediately transfer the drained orzo to a baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Toss gently with a fork to coat each piece, then spread the orzo evenly to cool. This step prevents the pasta from sticking together and helps it maintain a pleasant texture in the salad.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine your homemade Greek salad dressing with the red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, and sea salt. Whisk these ingredients until fully blended, creating a bright, tangy dressing that will infuse the salad with vibrant flavor.
- Assemble the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with the cucumber slices, halved cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, cubed feta, thinly sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives. Toss gently to distribute everything evenly.
- Dress and Garnish: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture, add half of the chopped fresh herbs, and season with freshly ground black pepper. Toss carefully until all ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Finally, garnish the salad with the remaining fresh herbs for an aromatic, colorful finish.
Notes
- Make Ahead Tip: For best flavor, prepare the orzo and dressing in advance, but add fresh herbs just before serving to preserve their bright taste and color.
- Pasta Texture: Cooking the orzo slightly beyond al dente helps it absorb the dressing without becoming too soft after chilling or sitting.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with fresh parsley, dill, or cilantro if you want a different herbal profile.
- Protein Boost: To add more protein, try mixing in grilled chicken or cooked shrimp for a non-vegetarian option.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Toss gently before serving again to refresh the flavors.
Nutritionally, it’s a powerhouse: chickpeas provide a generous dose of plant-based protein and fiber, supporting digestive health and prolonged energy.
The use of olive oil and fresh herbs delivers heart-healthy fats and antioxidants, while the salad remains relatively low in saturated fat.
This recipe is both quick and versatile—ready in under 40 minutes and perfect for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.
Its make-ahead nature allows flavors to deepen over time, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or potlucks.
Whether served as a hearty side or a light vegetarian lunch, this salad promises freshness, nutrition, and ease.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Large Pot
Essential for boiling the orzo pasta efficiently. A spacious pot ensures even cooking and prevents overcrowding, which keeps the pasta from sticking and results in perfectly tender grains every time. It’s a versatile staple for any kitchen, suitable for soups, boiling, or blanching.
Colander
Used to drain the cooked orzo quickly and thoroughly. A colander’s sturdy design makes rinsing and draining effortless, helping you control moisture levels in salads or pasta dishes, crucial for texture and flavor balance.
Mixing Bowl
The large mixing bowl provides ample space to toss the orzo with vegetables, dressing, and herbs without spilling. Beyond this recipe, it’s indispensable for mixing salads, marinating ingredients, or combining dough.
Baking Sheet
Spreading the orzo on a baking sheet to cool prevents clumping by allowing air to circulate around the pasta. This tool is also great for roasting vegetables or baking cookies, making it a multipurpose asset.
Measuring Spoons
Precise measurement of vinegar, lemon juice, and seasonings ensures balanced flavors in the dressing. Accurate measuring tools help maintain consistency across all your cooking and baking projects.
Chef’s Secrets for Ultimate Flavor
To elevate your orzo salad, the key lies in timing and ingredient freshness.
Cook the orzo just past al dente to ensure it remains tender but firm enough to soak up the dressing without turning mushy.
Tossing the warm orzo with olive oil immediately after draining prevents clumping and adds a subtle richness.
Fresh herbs like basil and mint should be added at the last minute to preserve their vibrant aroma and color.
The combination of tangy lemon juice and red wine vinegar in the dressing creates a perfect balance that brightens the dish without overpowering the natural flavors.
Don’t skip the Kalamata olives—they provide a delightful briny contrast that enhances the creamy feta and fresh vegetables.
For an even deeper flavor profile, marinate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions That Impress Guests
This orzo salad shines as a versatile dish on your table. Serve it chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side to grilled chicken, fish, or kebabs.
It also works beautifully as a vegetarian main course for a light lunch or picnic. Pair the salad with crusty bread or pita to round out the meal.
For a Mediterranean-inspired feast, complement it with hummus, roasted vegetables, or stuffed grape leaves.
If you’re aiming for a more indulgent touch, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top just before serving or add toasted pine nuts for an added crunch.
This salad’s bright flavors and colorful presentation make it an inviting choice for both casual family dinners and elegant gatherings.
Storage Tips to Keep Salad Fresh
To maintain the salad’s freshness and texture, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Keep the fresh herbs separate if possible, and add them just before serving to avoid wilting and discoloration.
The orzo pasta and vegetables hold up well for up to three days, but the salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours for maximum flavor and crispness.
If you notice any excess liquid, gently drain it off before serving to prevent sogginess.
Avoid freezing this salad as the texture of fresh vegetables and cheese will deteriorate.
For meal prep, portion the salad into individual containers and pack the dressing separately to toss when ready to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orzo Salad
1. Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, small pasta shapes like couscous, small shells, or even quinoa can be used as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and ensure they hold the dressing well.
2. Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?
To make it vegan, omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.
3. How do I make the Greek salad dressing from scratch?
A simple dressing includes olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until emulsified for a bright, flavorful dressing.
4. Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the orzo and vegetables in advance and store separately. Combine with dressing and fresh herbs just before serving to keep flavors fresh.
5. What are some good additions to boost nutrition?
Add-ins like grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, avocado slices, or toasted nuts can increase protein, healthy fats, and texture variety.
