Description
This dish is a Mediterranean-inspired salad made with orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and a tangy, flavorful dressing. The salad features ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, roasted red peppers, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives, creating a balanced, vibrant dish. The dressing is made with extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of Dijon mustard to provide a light, zesty flavor that ties everything together.
Ingredients
For the salad:
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1½ cups (285g) orzo pasta
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1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 small cucumber, diced
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½ cup (75g) Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
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½ cup (75g) feta cheese, crumbled
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¼ cup (25g) red onion, finely chopped
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½ cup (75g) roasted red peppers, chopped (optional but delicious)
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¼ cup (10g) fresh parsley, chopped
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2 tbsp fresh basil or mint (optional, for extra freshness)
🍋 For the dressing:
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¼ cup (60ml) extra-virgin olive oil
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2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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1 clove garlic, minced
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½ tsp dried oregano
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Cook the orzo:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add orzo and cook according to package directions (usually 8–10 minutes).
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Drain, rinse under cold water, and let cool slightly.
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Make the dressing:
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In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Assemble the salad:
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In a large bowl, combine the orzo, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta, red onion, roasted red peppers, and herbs.
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Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
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Chill and serve:
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Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
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Serve chilled or at room temperature.
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Notes
This Mediterranean orzo salad is a bright and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch. For extra zest, drizzle with more lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar, and feel free to add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or fresh herbs to make it even more vibrant!
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiled & Tossed
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
Keywords: Mediterranean salad with orzo, orzo pasta salad, Greek orzo salad, orzo salad with feta