Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Name: Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup cucumbers, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced; 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Celebration Planning

I absolutely love whipping up this Mediterranean Orzo Salad, especially on warm days when I crave something fresh and light. The combination of chewy orzo, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy dressing makes every bite a delight. I find that the flavors blend beautifully when the salad sits for a while, allowing the ingredients to truly marinate together. It's perfect for picnics, potlucks, or even as a satisfying side dish. Once you try it, I'm sure it will become a staple in your kitchen too!

Created by

Francesca Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:47:34.535Z

When I first made this Mediterranean Orzo Salad, I was taken by surprise at how easy it was to bring such fantastic flavors together. Using fresh ingredients really makes a difference, and I recommend using seasonal vegetables to ensure you get the best taste possible. I enjoyed making this dish during a recent family gathering, where it quickly became a crowd favorite.

One of my favorite aspects is the dressing—it's a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs that elevates the entire dish. I’ve found that letting the salad sit for a bit allows the orzo to soak up all the delicious tanginess, making every bite burst with flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Colorful and vibrant presentation that brightens up any table
Nutty orzo complements crisp veggies for a satisfying texture
Versatile dish that works as a main or side, suitable for any occasion

Perfectly Cooking Orzo

The orzo is the heart of this salad, and cooking it correctly is crucial to achieving that ideal chewy texture. Be sure to use a generous amount of salted water when boiling the orzo; this enhances its flavor. You want to cook it until it’s al dente, which typically takes around 8-10 minutes, depending on the brand. After draining, rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy. This step is essential for retaining its delightful bite.

When rinsing the orzo, ensure it's well-drained to avoid excess moisture that could dilute the salad dressing later. If you're preparing the salad in advance, I recommend slightly undercooking the orzo, as it will continue to absorb moisture. If you happen to overcook it, try adding a splash of olive oil to counteract the mushiness and to keep the pasta from clumping together.

Selecting Fresh Vegetables

Fresh, high-quality vegetables elevate the Mediterranean Orzo Salad to a whole new level. Look for vibrant cherry tomatoes that are plump and firm—these add sweetness and juiciness to the mix. Cucumbers should be crisp and unwaxed for a refreshing crunch, while bell peppers contribute a subtle sweetness and a pop of color. Red onion offers a bite; soaking it in cold water for a few minutes can help mellow its sharpness if desired.

Kalamata olives introduce a salty, briny flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. If you want to switch things up, you could substitute them with green olives for a slightly different taste. For a vegan version, you can omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based feta alternative. Chopped avocados could also work for creaminess while providing a boost of healthy fats.

Flavor Fusion and Storage

Letting the salad sit for a while before serving allows the flavors to meld, intensifying the overall taste. I find that a 10 to 15-minute chill in the refrigerator does wonders, but you could prepare it even earlier in the day. If you make it the night before, just remember to hold back on adding the feta until right before serving to prevent the cheese from becoming too soggy.

When it comes to storage, this salad can last in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead option. Just give it a good stir before serving, and if it looks a little dry, drizzle in a touch more olive oil or lemon juice. This dish is also delightful served at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics or outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Mediterranean Orzo Salad:

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumbers, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start creating your delicious salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Mediterranean Orzo Salad:

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the orzo cools, chop up all the veggies: cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and bell peppers. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Mix the Salad

Add the drained orzo to the bowl with the vegetables. Toss in the Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.

Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is well-coated.

Chill and Serve

Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes in the refrigerator before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Enjoy your refreshing Mediterranean Orzo Salad as a delightful summer dish!

Pro Tips

For added protein, feel free to include grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a more substantial meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Orzo Salad is wonderfully versatile and can stand alone as a light main dish or serve as an accompaniment to grilled meats or fish. To enhance the meal, consider pairing it with some crusty bread or pitas. You could also add a dollop of tzatziki for a refreshing touch that complements the Mediterranean flavors.

For added protein, try incorporating grilled chicken or shrimp. Marinating and then skewering them before grilling brings out the flavors, making each bite more satisfying. If you're looking to keep it vegetarian, chickpeas make an excellent inclusion, adding both protein and fiber for a fulfilling option.

Variations and Customization

The beauty of this salad is in its adaptability. Swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or artichokes to keep things fresh, or toss in some fresh spinach or arugula for an extra green boost. If you're craving a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.

For an Asian twist, try substituting the olive oil with sesame oil, and replace halved cherry tomatoes with shredded carrots. Adding edamame or roasted peanuts can also provide an exciting crunch. Feel free to get creative—this salad is a canvas that invites your favorite flavors!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day in advance.

→ What variations can I try?

You can switch out vegetables based on your preference or season. Try adding artichokes, spinach, or even roasted vegetables.

→ How long does it last in the refrigerator?

The Mediterranean Orzo Salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just keep it in an airtight container.

→ Can I serve this warm?

Yes, though it's traditionally served cold, warm orzo salad is delicious too! Just let it cool slightly before adding the dressing.