Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Name: Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Meals

When I first tasted Mediterranean Orzo Salad at a summer picnic, I was instantly hooked. The medley of fresh vegetables, tangy feta, and a zesty dressing combined to create a vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. I love how quickly it comes together, making it an ideal recipe for busy days or when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile—you can easily swap in your favorite veggies or herbs for a personalized touch.

Created by

Yvette Harrington

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:13:34.147Z

During my first attempt at making Mediterranean Orzo Salad, I paid close attention to the balance of flavors. The combination of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives not only added a pop of color but also a delightful burst of freshness in every bite. I quickly learned that letting the salad sit for a bit after dressing it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, elevating the dish even further.

One tip that has helped me immensely is to use high-quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice for the dressing. This really enhances the overall taste and brings out the Mediterranean essence. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking—it’s this personalization that makes it truly your own!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant flavors that remind you of Mediterranean summers
Easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks
Healthy ingredients packed with nutrients and flavor

Ingredient Highlights

The star of this Mediterranean Orzo Salad is undoubtedly the orzo pasta, which absorbs the flavors of the dressing and other ingredients beautifully. Choose high-quality orzo, cooking it to a perfect al dente texture that holds its shape well. Overcooking can lead to a mushy salad, so keep an eye on it and taste a few minutes before the package's recommended time.

Fresh vegetables are critical for a luscious salad. Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes that burst with sweetness and crisp cucumbers that offer a refreshing crunch. The Kalamata olives contribute a briny depth that harmonizes with the creamy feta, making the salad balanced and satisfying. Don't hesitate to experiment with seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers or radishes to elevate the dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the beauties of this salad is its make-ahead capability. You can prepare the orzo and chop the vegetables a day in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will not only save you time on busy days but ensure the vegetables retain their freshness and crunch when mixed together just before serving.

If you're planning to save leftovers, store the salad without the dressing to prevent sogginess. In this way, you can enjoy the flavors for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, simply drizzle the dressing, mix, and enjoy—a quick solution for lunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients

Gather the fresh ingredients to make this delightful Mediterranean Orzo Salad:

Salad Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, you can start preparing the salad!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Mediterranean Orzo Salad:

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the orzo cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Place them in a large mixing bowl along with the olives and feta cheese.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Everything

Add the cooled orzo to the bowl of vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve

Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy your Mediterranean Orzo Salad chilled or at room temperature!

This salad can be served immediately but tastes even better after some time in the fridge!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers. You can also make this a protein-rich meal by incorporating grilled chicken or chickpeas.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Orzo Salad shines at gatherings, but it also makes a hearty meal on its own. Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein, or serve it alongside a slice of warm, crusty bread for a comforting dinner. When plated, sprinkle with extra parsley and a few crumbles of feta for a visually appealing touch.

For a more substantial option, turn this salad into a grain bowl by layering it with quinoa or farro. The nutty flavor of farro complements the Mediterranean ingredients wonderfully, adding extra fiber and nutrients. Just be sure to cook the grains slightly less than usual for optimal texture when mixed with the salad.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to switch up the flavors in this salad based on your preferences or seasonal availability. Adding roasted red peppers or artichokes can introduce a delightful smokiness, while fresh basil replaces parsley for a distinct Italian twist. A sprinkle of chili flakes could also add a kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Another fun variation is to introduce nuts, such as toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds, providing a satisfying crunch and an additional layer of flavor. Just keep in mind to toast them lightly in a dry skillet for about 3-5 minutes to unlock their natural oils before adding them to the salad.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! It can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick toss before serving.

→ What can I substitute for orzo pasta?

You can use any small pasta shape like farro, quinoa, or even rice for a gluten-free option.

→ Is this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese and replace it with an alternative or skip it altogether.

→ How long will the leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.