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Greek Orzo Salad

Zesty Greek Orzo Salad for Refreshing Summer Meals

This Greek Orzo Salad combines refreshing ingredients and is packed with protein, perfect for light lunches or summer gatherings.
Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup orzo pasta substitute with any small pasta if needed
  • 1 cup cucumbers Persian cucumbers are best, but regular ones will do
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes swap with diced tomatoes if you prefer
  • 1 15 ounces canned chickpeas rinsed and drained
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives pitted and sliced
  • 1 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1 small red onion can soak in water to tone down flavor
  • ¼ cup fresh dill parsley or mint can work as substitutes
For the Dressing
  • ¼ cup lemon juice vinegar can be used instead if lemons aren't available
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard can be omitted for a milder flavor
  • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil any light oil can serve as a substitute
  • salt essential for seasoning
  • black pepper essential for seasoning

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • large pot
  • Colander
  • large spoon

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard until well combined. Gradually drizzle in ½ cup of extra-virgin olive oil while whisking continuously until the mixture emulsifies and thickens slightly. Stir in ¼ cup of finely chopped red onion and the chopped fresh dill, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically about 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and return it to the pot while it's still warm, then immediately toss with your prepared dressing to ensure the pasta absorbs the flavors.
  3. To the pot with orzo, add 1 cup of diced cucumbers, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 can (15 ounces) of rinsed and drained chickpeas, and ½ cup of pitted and sliced Kalamata olives. Gently toss all ingredients together using a large spoon, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Next, carefully fold in 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese into the salad mixture.
  5. Finally, divide the vibrant Greek Orzo Salad into serving bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra dill if desired, and serve immediately for a refreshing meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 8gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This Greek Orzo Salad is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, refreshing dish while keeping it high in protein and vegetarian-friendly!

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