Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Light: Packed with vegetables, herbs, and tangy feta, it’s light but full of flavor.

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep.

• Perfect for Meal Prep: Makes a great dish to prepare ahead and enjoy throughout the week.

• Customizable: Add more veggies or proteins like chicken or chickpeas for variation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta

• 1 cucumber, diced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

• 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon white vinegar

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Cook Orzo: Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.

2. Prepare Vegetables: Dice cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and onion. Slice olives.

3. Make the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, white vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.

4. Combine: In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo with the veggies, olives, and feta. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to combine.

5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp for extra protein.

• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for some heat.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Best served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this salad tastes even better after marinating in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, goat cheese or even mozzarella can be used instead of feta.

How do I prevent the orzo from becoming mushy?

Ensure the orzo is cooked al dente, and rinse it under cold water after draining to stop the cooking process.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or meal prep. With its fresh ingredients, tangy dressing, and Mediterranean flair, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.