This colorful Mediterranean Orzo Salad is packed with fresh veggies, tangy feta cheese, and zesty dressing. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for sunny days or a quick lunch!
I love bringing this salad to picnics because it’s super easy to make ahead. Just mix everything in a bowl and enjoy the compliment parade! 🌻
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a tiny pasta shaped like rice, making it perfect for salads. If you can’t find orzo, you can swap in small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini for a similar texture.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a salty, creamy element. If you’re dairy-free, try using firm tofu crumbled with a bit of salt or a dairy-free feta alternative. It’s still delicious!
Olives: Black olives are classic, but feel free to use green olives for a different flavor. If you want a milder taste, you can skip them altogether or use capers for a briny kick.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley is great, but you can also use basil or mint for a different twist. Their fresh flavors brighten the salad even more.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Cooked Orzo?
Cooking orzo may seem simple, but there are a few tips to make sure it turns out just right:
- Always boil salted water to enhance flavor. It should taste like the sea!
- Follow the cooking time on the package but check a minute or two early. You want it al dente, tender but a bit firm.
- Don’t forget to rinse the orzo under cold water after draining. This stops the cooking immediately and prevents it from clumping together.
Easy Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, diced or crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an extra 30 minutes in the fridge to let those tasty flavors blend together perfectly. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add in the orzo pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want that perfect, tender bite!
2. Draining and Cooling:
Once the orzo is cooked, drain it in a colander and quickly rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps cool the pasta. Let it drain thoroughly while you prep the other ingredients.
3. Mixing the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled orzo with the halved grape or cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, sliced black olives, and feta cheese. Don’t forget to add the fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
4. Making the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl or a jar with a lid (this is great for shaking!), whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Once it’s well mixed, pour the dressing over the salad.
5. Tossing and Tasting:
Gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are coated in that delicious dressing. Go ahead and taste it—feel free to add a bit more salt or pepper according to your preference!
6. Chilling Out:
Cover your salad and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those yummy flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Serving:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out and give it a gentle toss again. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature—it’s perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for any meal!
Enjoy your fresh and vibrant Mediterranean Orzo Salad! It’s sure to brighten your day. 🥗
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber to your salad. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may take a few more minutes than regular orzo to reach al dente.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This Mediterranean Orzo Salad can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. However, for the freshest taste and texture, it’s best enjoyed within 2 days!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize this salad easily! Consider adding bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or even some spinach for extra greens. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces to keep everything balanced!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based feta. You could also use avocado for creaminess—just add it right before serving to keep it fresh!