Greek Orzo Salad

Greek Orzo Salad

Greek orzo salad is a bright, Mediterranean pasta salad loaded with cucumber, tomato, olives, and feta in a lemon-oregano dressing. The tender orzo soaks up the zesty dressing for a dish that only gets better as it sits. It is a perfect make-ahead side for picnics, potlucks, and summer barbecues.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups orzo pasta
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives
  • 3/4 cup feta, crumbled
  • 1/4 red onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano

Instructions

  1. Cook the orzo in salted water until al dente, then drain and rinse briefly.
  2. Whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper into a dressing.
  3. Toss the warm orzo with half the dressing and let it cool slightly.
  4. Add the cucumber, tomatoes, olives, red onion, and feta.
  5. Pour over the rest of the dressing and toss to combine.
  6. Chill for 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

💡 Chef's tip

Rinse the cooked orzo briefly to stop the cooking and prevent clumping, then dress it while still slightly warm.

Tossing the warm, just-drained orzo with the dressing lets the pasta absorb the lemon and oregano flavor as it cools, seasoning it from the inside out.

Nutrition (per serving)

  • Calories: 310 kcal
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Carbs: 34 g
  • Fat: 16 g