Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Description

Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a bright, refreshing, and satisfying dish filled with tender orzo, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, briny olives, creamy feta, and fresh herbs. Everything is tossed in a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing that brings the ingredients together beautifully.

This versatile salad works wonderfully as a light lunch, side dish, or make-ahead meal. You can enjoy it on its own or add grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or another favorite protein for a more filling option. The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, feta, and citrusy dressing makes every bite colorful and flavorful.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1½ cups dry orzo pasta
• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 large cucumber, diced
• ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
• ½ small red onion, finely chopped
• ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

For the Dressing:

• ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon honey
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package directions until tender but still slightly firm. Drain well and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool.
2. While the orzo cools, prepare the vegetables. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, red onion, roasted red peppers, parsley, mint, and dill to a large serving bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, honey, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
4. Add the cooled orzo to the vegetables. Pour the dressing over everything and gently toss until evenly coated.
5. Fold in the crumbled feta cheese last so it stays slightly chunky. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional lemon juice, salt, or pepper if desired.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the orzo to absorb the bright Mediterranean flavors.

Tips & Variations

For extra protein, add grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or white beans. You can also add artichoke hearts, avocado, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes. For a stronger Mediterranean flavor, sprinkle a little extra oregano and feta over the top before serving.

If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, simply add a small splash of olive oil and lemon juice and toss again.

Serving & Storage

Serve chilled or at room temperature as a side dish with grilled fish, chicken, or roasted vegetables. It is also delicious packed for lunch.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Toss well before serving.