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An extreme close-up overhead shot of the healthy orzo pasta salad, showing the texture of the feta, tomatoes, and cucumbers.

Mediterranean Orzo: A Quick & Zesty 20-Minute Salad

This vibrant Mediterranean Orzo salad is the perfect blend of fresh veggies, feta, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. A simple, elegant, and healthy recipe that comes together in just 20 minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Orzo Pasta
  • 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes halved
  • 1 English Cucumber diced
  • 1/2 Red Onion thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives halved
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese crumbled
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley chopped
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Dill chopped
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar
  • 1 clove Garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper or to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Large Pot
  • 1 Large Bowl
  • 1 Whisk

Instructions
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process.
  2. While the orzo cooks, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, kalamata olives, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, and dill in a large salad bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add the cooled orzo to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the vinaigrette over everything and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Notes

Tip 1: For the best flavor, use a block of feta cheese packed in brine and crumble it yourself.
Tip 2: Don't be shy with the fresh herbs; they are key to the salad's bright, fresh taste.
Tip 3: To make this a full meal, add 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken or a can of drained chickpeas.
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