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Easy Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe

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4.3 from 81 reviews

This EASY Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful side. Featuring tender orzo pasta tossed with crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, tangy lemon dressing, and optional creamy feta, this salad combines Mediterranean flavors in just 20 minutes. It can be served immediately or chilled to meld the flavors, making it a versatile recipe ideal for warm weather meals and entertaining.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups orzo
  • 1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 green onions, trimmed and chopped (both white and green parts)
  • 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 English cucumber, chopped
  • 1 packed cup chopped parsley
  • 1/2 packed cup chopped fresh dill
  • 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
  • 2 teaspoons capers

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • Feta cheese (optional), for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain the orzo and rinse briefly with cold water to stop cooking and cool it down.
  2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and zest, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, and a good pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
  3. Mix the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved tomatoes, chopped green onions, chopped bell pepper, chopped cucumber, chopped parsley, chopped dill, sliced Kalamata olives, and capers. Stir gently to mix.
  4. Dress the salad: Add the cooked orzo to the vegetable mixture, then pour the dressing over everything. Toss thoroughly to ensure the orzo and vegetables are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for about 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld or up to 3 days for best taste.
  5. Finish and serve: Just before serving, garnish the salad with crumbled or chunked feta cheese if using. Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy a refreshing Mediterranean-inspired salad.

Notes

  • For best flavor, prepare the salad a few hours in advance so the dressing has time to infuse the ingredients.
  • Feta cheese is optional; omit for a dairy-free version.
  • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste after chilling.
  • If Kalamata olives are unavailable, substitute with other briny olives like Gaeta or Castelvetrano.
  • This salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep or picnics.
  • Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice pasta for a gluten-free version.

Find it online: https://recipethrive.com/easy-mediterranean-orzo-salad-recipe/