Print

Fresh Greek Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta

fresh greek orzo pasta salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy Mediterranean-inspired orzo pasta salad featuring fresh cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese tossed in a lemony olive oil dressing. Perfect for light meals and versatile for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (170g) dry orzo pasta
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 large lemon
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup (170g) dry orzo and cook according to package instructions (8–10 minutes) until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the orzo in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Set aside to drain completely (about 5 minutes).
  3. While the orzo cooks, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, slice the Kalamata olives, chop the parsley and oregano, and mince the garlic if using.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, prepared vegetables, and herbs. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly.
  6. Crumble the feta cheese on top and toss lightly to distribute without breaking up the cheese too much.
  7. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Before serving, stir gently and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Salt pasta water generously to season orzo from inside out. Rinse orzo under cold water after cooking to stop cooking and prevent clumping. Soak red onion in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow sharpness if desired. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for best flavor. Toss salad just before serving for vibrant texture or chill to meld flavors. Add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a main dish. For gluten-free, substitute orzo with quinoa or gluten-free orzo alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek salad, orzo pasta salad, feta cheese, Mediterranean, light meal, quick salad, healthy salad, vegetarian

Find it online: https://leilameals.com/fresh-greek-orzo-pasta-salad-with-feta-easy-light-meal-recipe/