Description
A refreshing and vibrant Greek Orzo Salad that combines tender orzo pasta with fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon-oregano dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a flavorful side dish, this salad is easy to prepare and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
Cheese and Olives
- ¾ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing
- â…“ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- Prepare Vegetables: While the orzo is cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and chopped fresh parsley.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well emulsified and flavorful.
- Toss Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad bowl and gently toss all ingredients together, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully before serving chilled.
Notes
- For best results, use good quality extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice to enhance the salad’s bright flavors.
- The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- You can add additional vegetables such as bell peppers or fresh herbs like mint for variation.
- This recipe is great for meal prep and can be served as a side or a light main dish.
