This cold orzo pasta salad is a delightful burst of Mediterranean flavors, combining fresh ingredients like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. The dish is enhanced with protein-rich chickpeas and a tangy lemon dressing, making it a satisfying and vibrant meal or side dish for any occasion. Whether it’s for a summer picnic, a family gathering, or a light lunch, this Mediterranean-inspired salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Mediterranean Flavors: A combination of fresh ingredients and bold Mediterranean flavors that make this dish irresistible.
Simple & Quick: Easy to prepare with minimal steps, making it an ideal go-to dish when you need something quick.
Healthy & Filling: Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Stays fresh in the refrigerator for several days, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, which typically takes around 8–10 minutes until the pasta reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer the cooled orzo into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the orzo cools, take the time to prepare the vegetables. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the olives, and finely chop the red onion. Once chopped, toss all these ingredients into the mixing bowl with the orzo.
Step 3: Add Chickpeas & Feta
Open the can of chickpeas, drain, and rinse them thoroughly. Add the chickpeas to the bowl along with crumbled feta cheese. Gently mix all the ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or mason jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Whisk or shake until the ingredients are fully emulsified and the dressing is smooth.
Step 5: Toss Everything Together
Pour the freshly made dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Add the freshly chopped parsley and basil for a burst of fresh flavor, and give it one final mix.
Step 6: Chill & Serve
To allow the flavors to meld together, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This salad is best enjoyed chilled, making it a perfect refreshing dish for warm days.
Cold Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
- While the orzo cools, chop the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the olives, and finely chop the red onion. Add these to the mixing bowl with the orzo.
- Add the chickpeas and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl. Gently toss all the ingredients to combine.
- In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Shake or whisk until the dressing is fully emulsified.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything to coat evenly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve chilled.
Nutrition
Tips for the Best Orzo Salad
- Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Ensure the orzo is cooked to an al dente texture to prevent the salad from becoming mushy.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and basil not only add flavor but also brighten the overall taste of the dish.
- Balance the Dressing: Adjust the amount of lemon juice and vinegar to suit your preference for tanginess.
- Let It Chill: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This Mediterranean orzo salad pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled Chicken or Fish: These proteins complement the salad’s fresh ingredients beautifully.
- Hummus & Pita Bread: Serve with your favorite Mediterranean dips for a complete meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: The orzo salad pairs perfectly with roasted Mediterranean vegetables, such as eggplant, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Variations
- Add Avocado: For extra creaminess and healthy fats, consider adding diced avocado to the salad.
- Include Roasted Red Peppers: Roasted red peppers add a smoky, sweet flavor that enhances the Mediterranean profile.
- Try Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes bring a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the mix.
- Make It Vegan: To make this dish vegan, skip the feta or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
Storage & Meal Prep
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If preparing the salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and mix it in just before serving. This ensures that the texture of the vegetables and pasta remains intact.
Final Thoughts
This cold orzo pasta salad with feta is a refreshing and healthy dish that brings the best of Mediterranean flavors to your plate. With its crunchy vegetables, creamy feta, protein-packed chickpeas, and zesty lemon dressing, it’s a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you serve it as a side or enjoy it as a light main dish, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit at your next picnic, BBQ, or family gathering.
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