Name: Greek Orzo Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta; 1 English cucumber, diced (Persian cucumbers work too); 1/3 cup diced red onion; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley; 1/3 cup chopped kalamata olives; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons red vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh ground black pepper, to taste

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There is something incredibly satisfying about a fresh, vibrant Greek Orzo Salad Recipe that brings together the bright flavors of the Mediterranean in one colorful bowl. This salad combines perfectly tender orzo pasta with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet vinaigrette that makes every bite a celebration. Whether you need a quick lunch, a side dish for dinner, or something to brighten your picnic table, this Greek Orzo Salad Recipe is a fantastic choice that’s both easy to prepare and endlessly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with five distinct layers of ingredients arranged separately inside. The bottom layer is pale yellow orzo pasta, with a slightly shiny and soft texture. Above this, on the left, there is a bright red layer of halved cherry tomatoes, smooth and juicy. To the right of the tomatoes is a fresh green layer of cubed cucumber with a glossy finish. Below the cucumber, there is a layer of finely chopped light purple onions with a crisp texture. Next to the onions, filling the bottom left of the bowl, is a bright green layer of chopped fresh parsley. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

As simple as the ingredients list might seem, each component plays a key role in building the salad’s amazing texture, color, and layers of flavor. From the creamy feta to the fresh cucumber and the punchy vinaigrette, every item brings something special to the table.

1 cup uncooked orzo pasta: The tender, rice-shaped pasta acts as the hearty base, soaking up all the lovely dressing flavors.
1 English cucumber (diced): Adds a refreshing crunch and a subtle coolness that balances the salty notes.
1/3 cup diced red onion: Brings a mild sharpness that livens up the salad without overpowering it.
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Their juicy sweetness bursts in every bite, brightening the dish visually and in taste.
3 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley: Infuses an herby freshness, elevating the salad’s Mediterranean vibe.
1/3 cup chopped kalamata olives: These lend a briny, slightly fruity flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy feta.
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: The rich, salty cheese ties the salad together with its tangy creaminess.
1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Provides smooth richness and helps blend all the dressing flavors.
3 tablespoons red vinegar: Adds the perfect acidic punch to brighten the vinaigrette.
1 tablespoon honey: Balances the acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Offers subtle heat and emulsifies the dressing beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a gentle garlicky depth without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: The classic Mediterranean herb that perfectly complements the salad flavors.
Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning to bring all the flavors to life.

How to Make Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Start by cooking the orzo pasta until it is al dente—just tender with a slight bite. This ensures it won’t become mushy when combined with the other ingredients. Once cooked, rinse the orzo under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly. Drain well and transfer it to a large serving bowl, which will hold all the fresh vegetables and dressing.

Step 2: Combine the Fresh Vegetables and Cheese

Add the diced English cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, kalamata olives, and parsley to the cooled orzo. Sprinkle in the crumbled feta cheese, which adds a rich, creamy texture that balances the crisp veggies and savory olives perfectly.

Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and dried oregano. This vinaigrette is where the magic happens—its tangy and slightly sweet notes brighten the salad and bring all the flavors together beautifully. Adjust the kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to your taste.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Pour the vinaigrette over the orzo and vegetable mixture and gently toss everything until the salad is evenly coated. Give it a quick taste and tweak the seasoning if needed. The Greek Orzo Salad Recipe can be served immediately for a fresh, crisp bite or refrigerated to let the flavors marry before serving.

How to Serve Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

A large white bowl is filled with a colorful mix of orzo pasta, halved red cherry tomatoes, small chopped cucumber pieces, black olives, and red onion bits, all topped with scattered white crumbled feta cheese and green herbs. The textures include the smooth orzo, juicy tomatoes, firm cucumber, and crumbly cheese spread evenly across the bowl. Behind the bowl, there is a gray ceramic bowl filled with a light brown dressing, resting on a white marbled surface with two vintage silver spoons nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your Greek Orzo Salad Recipe look as delightful as it tastes, garnish with a sprinkle of extra crumbled feta, a few whole kalamata olives, or fresh parsley leaves. A drizzle of olive oil before serving can also add a lovely sheen and boost of richness that guests will appreciate.

Side Dishes

This salad works wonderfully as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, lamb kebabs, or even fresh pita bread with hummus. Its bright, fresh flavors complement smoky or savory mains, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or a fun twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out tomatoes or small cucumber cups for individual servings. You can also layer it in a glass jar for a portable and visually stunning lunch option. The vivid colors and textures make it a crowd-pleaser wherever you serve it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek Orzo Salad Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop further after resting, making the salad even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the delicate texture of the fresh vegetables and the pasta. Freezing can cause them to become mushy and watery once thawed.

Reheating

Since this is a cold salad, reheating is not recommended. If you prefer a warmer dish, try lightly warming the orzo on its own and then mixing in the fresh ingredients and dressing afterward.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! While orzo is traditional and offers a perfect texture, small pasta shapes like Israeli couscous or mini shells can work well. Just make sure to cook them al dente so the salad maintains a nice bite.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep! Prepare the salad up to two days in advance for flavors to meld. Keep the dressing separate if you want to retain some extra crunch in the vegetables until serving.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Definitely. Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan feta alternative for a plant-based version that still captures the Greek flavors beautifully.

What can I substitute if I don’t have kalamata olives?

If kalamata olives aren’t available, black olives or green olives can be used, though kalamata brings a unique fruity saltiness that is tough to replicate exactly.

How long does the Greek Orzo Salad Recipe keep fresh?

Stored properly in the fridge, this salad stays fresh and tasty for up to 3 days. Beyond that, the vegetables may start to lose their crispness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a delightful way to bring the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean into your kitchen, the Greek Orzo Salad Recipe is a beautiful place to start. Its bright colors, fresh ingredients, and easy preparation make it a weeknight favorite and a stunning dish to share with friends. Go ahead and try it—you’re going to love how effortlessly delicious it is!

Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need