Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Name: Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Collection

I absolutely love making Mediterranean Orzo Salad, especially during the warm months. The combination of fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and al dente orzo creates a refreshing dish that's perfect for picnics or as a side for grilled meats. Every bite bursts with flavor, and it's surprisingly easy to prepare. I often find myself experimenting with different dressings or adding in leftover proteins, making this recipe incredibly versatile. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes!

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:27:34.724Z

When I first made Mediterranean Orzo Salad, I was blown away by how quickly it came together and how fresh it tasted. The orzo pasta pairs perfectly with crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and briny olives, creating a dish that's as beautiful as it is delicious. I like to cook the orzo just until it’s al dente to keep that perfect bite.

Through trial and error, I discovered that letting the salad sit for about 10 minutes after tossing it helps the flavors meld beautifully. It’s a great way to use whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a go-to recipe for a light lunch or a side dish for dinner!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, vibrant flavors that bring summer to your plate
Light yet satisfying, perfect as a main or side dish
Customizable with your favorite vegetables and proteins

Choosing the Right Orzo

Selecting high-quality orzo is crucial for achieving the perfect chewy texture in your Mediterranean Orzo Salad. Look for brands made from durum wheat semolina, as they hold their shape well during cooking. Avoid overcooking the orzo; it should be 'al dente' when drained, which usually takes around 8–10 minutes. A quick rinse under cold water not only stops the cooking but also helps the pasta maintain its firmness when mixed with the vegetables and dressing.

If you prefer a whole-grain option, you can find whole wheat orzo, which adds a nuttier flavor and additional fiber to the dish. Just keep in mind that whole-grain pasta may require a slightly longer cooking time. If you want to experiment further, try mixing orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or orrechiette for an interesting textural variation.

Vegetable Variations

The beauty of Mediterranean Orzo Salad lies in its versatility when it comes to vegetables. While the recipe calls for cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper, feel free to mix in other seasonal produce. Zucchini, sautéed spinach, or even roasted red peppers can add a delicious twist. For a crunchier texture, consider adding radishes or snapping peas; just chop them small enough to complement the orzo without overpowering it.

If you're preparing the salad ahead of time for a picnic or gathering, be sure to shred or grate heartier vegetables like carrots or cabbage. They will hold up better in the dressing, ensuring your salad remains fresh and vibrant even after a few hours.

Ingredients

For the Salad

1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Orzo

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the orzo is cooking, chop the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, chopped vegetables, olives, and feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. You can also experiment with different vegetables based on what's in season.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing Mediterranean Orzo Salad in advance can save you time and ensure you have a refreshing dish ready to go. You can cook the orzo and chop the vegetables a day ahead. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep the pasta from becoming too soggy. Just before serving, combine the orzo and vegetables, add the dressing, and toss everything together.

For the freshest flavors, I recommend waiting to add the feta cheese and any delicate herbs like parsley until just before serving. If you need to make it even further in advance, consider holding off on the dressing until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Orzo Salad is not only delightful on its own but also pairs beautifully with a range of proteins. Grilled chicken or shrimp can be fantastic additions if you’re looking to turn this salad into a heartier main course. Alternatively, serve it alongside grilled meats or seafood for a balanced summer meal.

To elevate your meal, present the salad in a large bowl and garnish with additional crumbled feta and a drizzle of olive oil. A handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts would also add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that complements the Mediterranean ingredients beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! It can be prepared a few hours ahead. Just keep it in the fridge and add the dressing just before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add ingredients like artichoke hearts, spinach, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free orzo, this salad can be made gluten-free. Make sure to check the label.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.