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Fresh Greek Orzo Pasta Salad with Zesty Lemon Feta Dressing

Fresh Greek Orzo Pasta Salad - featured image

A light, refreshing, and tangy Greek-inspired orzo pasta salad featuring crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and a creamy lemon feta dressing. Perfect for warm weather and quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups (280g) dry orzo pasta
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced (seeded if desired)
  • 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of dried oregano or mint

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water (about 4 quarts) to a boil. Add 1 1/2 cups dry orzo and cook 8-10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally.
  2. Drain orzo and rinse under cold water to cool and prevent sticking. Set aside.
  3. While orzo cooks, dice cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, slice Kalamata olives, finely chop red onion, and chop parsley. Place in a large mixing bowl.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Add cooled orzo to the bowl with vegetables. Crumble feta cheese over the top.
  6. Pour the lemon feta dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
  8. Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Rinse cooked orzo under cold water to prevent sticking and cool it quickly. Add dressing gradually and taste to balance lemon acidity. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Use gluten-free orzo and vegan feta alternatives for dietary modifications.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek salad, orzo pasta salad, lemon feta dressing, Mediterranean salad, easy pasta salad, summer salad, healthy salad