Greek Orzo Salad Recipe
When it comes to side dishes, this simple Greek Orzo Salad is one of my family’s favorite recipes. No cookout is complete without this healthy pasta salad recipe full of Greek flavor.
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In the realm of Mediterranean cuisine, Greek Orzo Salad stands as a shining example of culinary bliss. Bursting with robust Mediterranean flavors, vibrant colors, bold flavors, and wholesome ingredients, this salad is a symphony of taste that transports you to the cobblestone streets of Athens or the tranquil beaches of Santorini.
Imagine a bowl filled with tender orzo pasta, tangy feta cheese, a colorful array of fresh veggies, and tossed in a lemony dressing. Each bite is a delightful dance of textures and tastes, harmonizing perfectly to create a palate-pleasing sensation. This salad is a perfect side dish with grilled chicken, fish or pork. Craving a meatless meal? Serve this pasta salad recipe as a stand-alone meal.
But what truly elevates this salad to legendary status is the addition of traditional Greek ingredients like feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and plenty of fresh herbs. The creamy saltiness of the feta cheese adds a luxurious richness, while the briny pop of the olives provides a delightful contrast. And let’s not forget the aromatic herbs like oregano and parsley, which infuse the dish with an unmistakable Mediterranean essence.
Whether you’re planning a picnic in the park, a beachside barbecue, or a casual weekday lunch, Mediterranean Orzo Salad with homemade lemon vinaigrette is the perfect choice. It’s versatile, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will impress even the most discerning of palates. It’s a great recipe for those upcoming summer picnics because it definitely feeds a crowd.
How To Make Easy Greek Orzo Salad
In this blog post, we’ll take you on a culinary journey to Greece as we explore the art of making Greek Orzo Salad. From selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the perfect balance of flavors, we’ll guide you through each step with clear instructions and helpful tips. So grab your apron and get ready to embark on a delicious adventure that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds and brighten your day!
Greek Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe Ingredients
- Orzo Pasta
- Grape tomatoes, halved (can also use cherry tomatoes)
- Persian cucumbers or English Cucumber
- Red onion
- Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Zingy Greek Dressing (Fresh Lemon Juice, Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Red Wine Vinegar)
- Fresh Herbs
Salad-Making Kitchen Essentials
What is Orzo
Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta made from flour, wheat, and water. Although it resembles short-grained rice, it is a pasta originating from Italy. Orzo is great in soups and salads.
How To Store Greek Pasta Salad
This pasta salad recipe can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. The pasta will soak up the juices from the salad dressing so it’s best to eat as soon as possible.
More Easy Salad Recipes
- Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad
- Watermelon, Feta & Arugula Salad
- Pepperoni Pasta Salad
- Red, White & Blueberry Salad
- Thai Peanut Salad
Greek Orzo Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups dry orzo pasta
- 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved (can also use cherry tomatoes)
- 3 Persian cucumbers, diced (mini cucumbers)
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup garbanzo beans
- 6 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Rinse under cold water and drain well.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo with cherry tomatoes, diced Persian cucumbers, red onion, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Add the chopped fresh herbs to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients well.
- Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your taste.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
