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Fresh Greek Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe Easy Perfect for Summer Meals

fresh greek orzo pasta salad - featured image

A quick and easy Greek-inspired orzo pasta salad with sun-dried tomatoes, feta, and fresh veggies, perfect for summer meals and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups (about 270g) uncooked orzo pasta
  • 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed preferred)
  • 3/4 cup (about 110g) crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1/3 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring 4 cups (1 liter) of salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add 1 1/2 cups (270g) of orzo pasta and cook for about 8-10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally.
  2. Drain the orzo in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking. Shake off excess water well. Transfer the orzo to a large mixing bowl while still slightly warm.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice (about 3 tablespoons), 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
  4. Add 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 3/4 cup crumbled feta, 1 diced cucumber, 1/3 cup sliced Kalamata olives, 1 finely chopped small red onion, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley to the orzo bowl. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly to combine.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 1 hour, to let flavors mingle and the salad cool.
  6. Before serving, give the salad a final stir and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for juicier flavor. Rinse orzo after cooking to prevent gumminess. Toss salad gently to keep feta chunks intact. For dairy-free, substitute feta with vegan cheese or omit. Salad tastes better after chilling at least 30 minutes. Add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a fuller meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek orzo salad, pasta salad, summer salad, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, easy salad recipe, healthy pasta salad