This Easy Orzo Salad is a perfect summer dish! Made with cute little pasta, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing, it’s light and refreshing for hot days.
Honestly, I love how colorful it looks on the plate. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up ahead of time. Great for picnics or backyard BBQs—just grab a fork and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta looks like rice but cooks quickly. If you can’t find orzo, you can swap it with any small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or small shells for a similar texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness brightens the salad. In a pinch, you can use diced regular tomatoes. For added zing, consider using sun-dried tomatoes.
Kalamata Olives: These add a wonderful salty flavor. If you’re not a fan, feel free to use green olives or capers for a different taste.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives the salad a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu or omit the cheese altogether.
Fresh Herbs: Basil and mint add freshness. If you don’t have them, parsley would make a nice substitute. Dried herbs can work, but fresh is best!
How Do I Properly Cook Orzo Pasta?
Cooking orzo properly ensures a perfect texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil—this keeps the pasta flavorful.
- Add orzo and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Check for al dente texture, where the pasta is tender but still slightly firm.
- Drain and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
This step is key to keeping orzo from getting mushy in your salad!
Easy Orzo Salad Recipe for Summer Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful orzo salad will take about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator, allowing all the flavors to come together. In total, you’ll be looking at about 45 minutes from start to serving, making it a quick and easy summer meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Begin by boiling water in a large pot and adding a pinch of salt. Once the water is boiling, add the orzo pasta. Cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set aside to let it drain completely.
2. Mix the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, Kalamata olives, chickpeas, red onion, and feta cheese. This vibrant mix will add color and delicious flavors to your salad!
3. Combine with Orzo:
Add the cooled orzo pasta to the bowl with the veggies. Be gentle as you toss everything together, so all the ingredients mix well but don’t fall apart.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This simple dressing will really enhance the salad’s flavors!
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss gently once more to ensure everything is evenly coated in flavor.
6. Add Fresh Herbs:
Sprinkle the torn basil and mint leaves on top of the salad. These fresh herbs will add a lovely aroma and taste. Give the salad a final gentle toss to combine.
7. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling will help the flavors meld together beautifully, making the salad even better.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your easy orzo salad is ready to enjoy! Serve it chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect as a side dish for grilled foods or as a light main dish. Delightful and refreshing for your summer meals!
FAQ for Easy Orzo Salad Recipe
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or even small shells. Just ensure they are cooked according to package instructions to achieve the right texture.
How Long Does Leftover Orzo Salad Last in the Fridge?
Leftover orzo salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, to make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free feta alternative. Also, make sure that the ingredients like olives and chickpeas are free from non-vegan additives.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
This salad is very versatile! You can add ingredients like bell peppers, arugula, avocado, or even grilled vegetables for a unique twist. Just make sure to keep the balance of flavors and textures in mind!
