Description
This Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish packed with Mediterranean flavors. With crisp vegetables, briny olives, creamy feta, and a tangy vinaigrette, this salad makes for the perfect side dish or light meal. It’s easy to prepare, refreshing, and perfect for warm weather gatherings or meal prep.
Ingredients
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1 cup uncooked orzo
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1 (10-ounce) package little tomatoes (grape or cherry), cut into halves
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3–4 mini cucumbers (or ½ English cucumber), chopped
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½ cup crumbled feta
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¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted & cut into halves
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1–2 tablespoons chopped red onion
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¼ teaspoon dried oregano
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1–2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
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Salt & pepper to taste
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For garnish: Fresh parsley (optional), to taste
Instructions
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Cook the orzo:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool. -
Prepare the vegetables:
While the orzo is cooking, halve the tomatoes, chop the cucumbers, and slice the Kalamata olives in half. Set them aside in a large mixing bowl. -
Assemble the salad:
Add the cooled orzo to the bowl with the tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and red onion. Sprinkle with dried oregano. -
Make the dressing:
Drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar over the salad. Toss everything together until well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste. -
Add the feta:
Gently fold the crumbled feta into the salad, making sure it’s evenly distributed. - Garnish and serve:
Garnish the salad with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
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This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more after chilling.
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Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers, red onion, or artichokes for variety.
- You can also add some protein, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, to make it a more filling meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: Mediterranean