Mediterranean Orzo Summer Salad

This vibrant Mediterranean orzo salad combines tender pasta with fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese in a bright lemon dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings, meal prep, or as a revitalizing side dish, this colorful salad gets even better as it chills and the flavors meld together.

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Course: Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keyword: Salad

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 8

Total Time: 23

Servings:

Calories: 285kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the Salad:

1 ½ cups dry orzo pasta
1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes halved
2 green onions chopped
½ green bell pepper chopped
1 cup chopped fresh parsley
½ cup chopped fresh dill
¼ cup sliced pitted kalamata olives
2 teaspoons capers
Feta cheese to taste

For the Dressing:

1 lemon zested and juiced
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 garlic clove minced
1 teaspoon oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook orzo pasta according to package directions (approximately 8 minutes) until al dente. Drain and let cool completely.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, halved tomatoes, chopped green onions, bell pepper, parsley, dill, sliced olives, and capers.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients.
Top with crumbled feta cheese and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop and meld together

Adjust the amount of feta cheese and fresh herbs according to your taste preferences

This salad can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator - the flavors actually improve overnight

Substitute the bell pepper with cucumber for extra crunch and freshness

If you can't find fresh dill, use 2 tablespoons of dried dill instead

Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make this a complete main course meal

The salad can be served at room temperature or chilled - both are delicious

Nutrition