Greek Orzo Salad is a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish that combines the fresh ingredients of a traditional Greek salad with the tender bite of orzo pasta. This colorful salad is packed with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon-oregano dressing. It’s a perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or a healthy lunch on its own. Easy to make and full of Mediterranean flavors, this salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Orzo:
- In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool, then set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Add the cooled orzo to the bowl of vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well combined.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional feta, if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
This Greek Orzo Salad is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients and bold Mediterranean flavors, making it a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or a delicious stand-alone meal!
