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Greek Orzo Salad

Greek Orzo Salad

Greek Orzo Salad is a fresh, vibrant Mediterranean dish combining tender orzo pasta, crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, tangy feta cheese, and fresh herbs, all tossed in a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing. Perfect for a light lunch, picnic, or side, it’s quick to prepare and becomes even more flavorful after chilling.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo: Boil the orzo pasta in salted water according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it quickly.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the orzo cooks, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and roughly chop the parsley and mint to prepare fresh and crunchy components.
  3. Mix the Dressing: Whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create a bright and flavorful dressing that enhances the salad’s taste.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the cooked orzo with the diced vegetables, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta, and fresh herbs. Pour the dressing over and gently but thoroughly stir to coat everything evenly.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Cook orzo al dente to avoid mushy pasta.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
  • Chill the salad to allow flavors to blend beautifully.
  • Slice onions thinly to keep their flavor subtle.
  • Adjust salt carefully at the end because feta and olives add saltiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek salad, orzo salad, Mediterranean, summer salad, easy side dish, healthy lunch