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Fresh Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

fresh greek orzo pasta salad - featured image

A vibrant and refreshing Greek orzo pasta salad featuring tangy lemon, briny olives, creamy feta, and fresh herbs. Perfect for summer meals, potlucks, or light lunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (about 270g) uncooked orzo pasta
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese (small-curd preferred)
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 ½ cups (270g) of orzo pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the orzo in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool for about 10 minutes.
  3. While the orzo cools, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, slice the Kalamata olives, chop the parsley and mint (if using), and mince the garlic.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, dried oregano, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, chopped vegetables, herbs, and crumbled feta cheese.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  8. Before serving, stir gently and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Rinsing the orzo under cold water after cooking prevents it from becoming mushy and keeps the salad fresh and light. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best flavor. Adjust salt carefully as feta and olives add saltiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek orzo pasta salad, summer salad, easy pasta salad, feta salad, Mediterranean salad, healthy pasta salad