Orzo Pasta Salad

Short Description

Orzo Pasta Salad is a light, refreshing dish made with tender orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is perfect for warm-weather gatherings, quick lunches, or a healthy side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare
Packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors
Ideal for meal prep or make-ahead events
Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients
Serves well as both a main or a side dish

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Orzo pasta
Cherry tomatoes
Cucumber
Red onion
Kalamata olives
Feta cheese
Fresh parsley
Extra virgin olive oil
Lemon juice
Salt and pepper

Directions

Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
Chop the Vegetables: Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and slice the olives.
Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, vegetables, crumbled feta, and chopped parsley.
Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for protein
Use goat cheese or cubed mozzarella instead of feta
Substitute parsley with fresh basil, dill, or mint
Include extras like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes
Make it spicy with a pinch of crushed red pepper or chopped chili

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Let it sit out for about 15 minutes before serving if chilled.

FAQs

What is orzo?

Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. It cooks quickly and is ideal for salads and soups.

Can I make Orzo Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors develop over time.

Should this salad be served hot or cold?

It is traditionally served cold or at room temperature, making it ideal for outdoor meals and potlucks.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, other small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or small shells can be used as a substitute.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can use gluten-free orzo or substitute with a gluten-free grain like quinoa or rice.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

You can replace feta with goat cheese, mozzarella pearls, or even a dairy-free alternative.

How long will this salad last in the refrigerator?

The salad can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Can I freeze Orzo Pasta Salad?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the pasta and vegetables may change once thawed.

What can I serve with this salad?

It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or can be enjoyed alone as a light main course.

How can I enhance the flavor?

Add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted garlic, fresh herbs, or a touch of balsamic vinegar to deepen the flavor profile.

Conclusion

Orzo Pasta Salad is a refreshing, versatile dish that’s quick to make and packed with bold, fresh flavors. Whether you’re preparing a side for a barbecue or a light main course for lunch, this recipe offers a delicious, wholesome option that’s easy to adapt and enjoy.