This tasty Mediterranean Orzo Salad is bright and fresh! It combines orzo pasta with colorful veggies, olives, and feta cheese, making it a great side dish or lunch.
Whip it up in no time for a potluck or a simple dinner. I love how it keeps well in the fridge, so I can enjoy it for days—if it lasts that long! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta looks like rice and adds texture. If you’re avoiding gluten, try quinoa or rice as a substitute. I often prefer whole wheat orzo for added nutrition.
Cherry Tomatoes: They bring sweetness and color. You can use regular tomatoes, but chop them finely. Grape tomatoes are a great alternative too.
Kalamata Olives: They give a nice briny flavor. If you don’t have them, green olives or any other pitted olives will work. I personally love the taste of Tuscan olives!
Feta Cheese: It adds creaminess and tang. If you want it dairy-free, use tahini or a vegan feta. Crumbled goat cheese is a delicious substitute for a different flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and basil brighten the salad. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs can be used, but fresh really elevates the dish!
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo may seem easy, but it can be tricky to get it just right! Follow these steps to ensure it comes out perfect:
- Start with boiling salted water; this enhances the orzo’s flavor.
- Stir the orzo in after adding it to prevent sticking.
- Check for doneness 1-2 minutes before the package instructions say—it should be al dente, with a slight bite.
- Rinse with cold water immediately after draining to stop the cooking process.
With these tips, your orzo salad will be a hit! Enjoy the experience and make it your own! 🌿✨
Easy Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Salad:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups water (for cooking orzo)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes of chilling time in the fridge. You can have it ready to serve in about 45 minutes, making it a quick and refreshing dish for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. This means it should be cooked but still have a slight bite to it!
2. Draining and Cooling:
Once the orzo is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down. Make sure to drain it well, then transfer the orzo to a large mixing bowl.
3. Adding Fresh Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add all those tasty veggies! Add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, Kalamata olives, finely chopped red onion, feta cheese, parsley, and basil to the bowl with the orzo. Give it a lovely gentle stir to combine!
4. Making the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. This dressing is what brings all the flavors together!
5. Mixing Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the orzo and vegetable mixture. Toss everything gently to make sure everything is well-coated in that delicious dressing.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste and see if it needs any more salt, pepper, or lemon juice. Adjust according to your preference—this is your salad after all!
7. Chill Time:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
8. Serving:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge. It can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect as a side dish or light main course. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Mediterranean Orzo Salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great alternative that adds more fiber to the dish. Just cook it the same way you would regular orzo, following the package instructions.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Mediterranean Orzo Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to give it a quick stir before serving, as the dressing may settle.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply replace the feta cheese with a vegan feta or omit it entirely. You can also add more veggies or legumes, like chickpeas, for extra texture and protein!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
This salad is quite versatile! Feel free to add bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or even spinach. Just chop them into small pieces to keep the textures balanced!
