Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

This Greek Orzo Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and is incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch, this salad combines the fresh tastes of Mediterranean ingredients. The unique blend of orzo, feta, olives, and vegetables makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time and only 10 minutes of cooking, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs, tangy lemon juice, and creamy feta creates a delightful taste that will please any palate.
• Versatile Dish: This Greek Orzo Pasta Salad works well as a side dish or main course. You can enjoy it warm or cold, making it perfect for any season.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with nutritious vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil, this salad is both satisfying and wholesome.
• Make Ahead Option: It’s ideal for meal prep; you can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a day without losing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make your preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Pot for boiling water
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Ensures thorough mixing of the dressing ingredients for an even flavor throughout the salad.
• Colander: Helps drain the orzo efficiently after cooking, preventing overcooking.

Ingredients

This Greek Orzo Salad is packed to the brim with flavour and so simple to make!

Dressing Ingredients

• 80ml / 1/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 3 tbsp Red apple vinegar
• 1 small bunch Fresh Parsley (finely diced) (1oz/30g)
• 1 heaped tsp Dried Oregano
• 1/4 tsp EACH: Salt, Black Pepper (plus more to taste if desired)

Salad Ingredients

• 150g / 5.3oz Baby Plum Tomatoes (halved)
• 100g / 3.5oz Feta (sliced into tiny cubes)
• 100g / 3.5oz Kalamata Olives (halved)
• 3 tbsp very finely diced Red Onion (1/2 small/medium onion)
• 1 small clove of Garlic (very finely diced)
• 300g / 1 1/2 cups uncooked Orzo
• 75g / 2.6oz Green Pepper (finely diced)
• 75g / 2.6oz Cucumber (sliced into thin quarter pieces)
• 1/2 Lemon (juice only)

How to Make Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
– Extra virgin olive oil
– Red apple vinegar
– Finely diced parsley
– Dried oregano
– Salt & pepper

Add in:
– Halved baby plum tomatoes
– Cubed feta
– Halved Kalamata olives
– Finely diced red onion
– Very finely diced garlic

Stir everything to combine. Let it marinate at room temperature for at least an hour or refrigerate if you prefer longer marination.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

Boil salted water in a pot. Add the uncooked orzo:
1. Cook until al dente according to package instructions.
2. Drain using a colander.
3. Rinse with cold water until completely cool.
4. Shake off excess water before adding to the dressing mixture.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

Once the orzo is ready:
– Stir in finely diced green pepper and cucumber into the salad bowl.
– Squeeze in juice from half a lemon.
– Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Now your Greek Orzo Pasta Salad is ready to serve! Enjoy this delightful dish at your next gathering or as part of an everyday meal!

How to Serve Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

Greek Orzo Pasta Salad is versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a casual lunch or a festive dinner, this salad can be served in various ways to complement your meal.

As a Main Dish

• A refreshing option for warm days, this salad can stand alone as a satisfying main course.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled meats or fish to add a burst of flavor to your meal. The tangy feta and olives enhance any protein.

At Gatherings

• Serve it at potlucks or picnics. Its robust flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead of time.

With Bread

• Accompany with crusty bread or pita for a delightful combination. This adds texture and makes the meal more filling.

In Meal Prep

• Pack individual portions for lunch throughout the week. It holds up well in the fridge, making it ideal for busy days.

How to Perfect Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

To ensure your Greek Orzo Pasta Salad is always delicious, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor of your salad significantly.
• Marinate Longer: Allowing the ingredients to marinate for several hours lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Cook Orzo Al Dente: This helps maintain the pasta’s texture in the salad, preventing it from becoming mushy.
• Taste Before Serving: Adjust seasoning with lemon juice, salt, or pepper just before serving for maximum flavor.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to mix in additional vegetables like bell peppers or artichokes for added nutrition and color.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

When serving Greek Orzo Pasta Salad, consider pairing it with these delicious side dishes that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers provide protein and are easy to cook on the grill.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender brings warmth and earthiness to the meal.
3. Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips adds a Mediterranean touch.
4. Tzatziki Sauce: This refreshing yogurt sauce pairs wonderfully with any Greek dish and enhances flavors.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These traditional bites offer a delightful combination of rice and herbs wrapped in vine leaves.
6. Feta Cheese Platter: Serve assorted olives and various types of feta for an easy appetizer that matches the salad’s theme.
7. Mediterranean Flatbread: Soft flatbreads seasoned with herbs can be used to scoop up salad or dips, enhancing the dining experience.
8. Cucumber Yogurt Salad: A cool cucumber salad balances out the hearty orzo dish while adding crunch and creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Greek Orzo Pasta Salad and make your cooking experience much smoother.

• Skipping the marination: Failing to let the salad ingredients marinate can lead to a bland dish. Aim for at least an hour to let the flavors meld.
• Overcooking the orzo: Cooking orzo too long can result in a mushy texture. Always cook until al dente for the best results.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Neglecting to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to a salad that lacks flavor. Always check before serving!
• Using low-quality olive oil: Using inferior olive oil can diminish the salad’s taste. Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using stale or overripe ingredients can spoil the dish. Choose fresh vegetables and herbs for vibrant flavors.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Greek Orzo Pasta Salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, store dressing separately until ready to serve.

Freezing Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture and flavor.
• If necessary, freeze individual servings in airtight containers.
• Consume within 2 months for optimal quality.

Reheating Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the salad in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over low heat, add a splash of water or olive oil, and stir the salad gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Greek Orzo Pasta Salad?

Greek Orzo Pasta Salad is a refreshing dish made with orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, feta cheese, olives, and a tangy dressing. It’s perfect for lunch or as a side dish.

How do I customize my Greek Orzo Pasta Salad?

You can add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra nutrition. Feel free to substitute any vegetables based on your preference.

Can I make Greek Orzo Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad tastes even better when made ahead. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until serving.

What are some good sides with Greek Orzo Pasta Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, pita bread, or roasted vegetables. It makes an excellent addition to any Mediterranean meal.

Final Thoughts

The Greek Orzo Pasta Salad is not only flavorful but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients. Whether served as a main course or side dish, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Greek Orzo Pasta Salad, an ideal dish for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch. Bursting with Mediterranean goodness, this salad combines tender orzo pasta with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and kalamata olives. With its quick preparation and delightful taste, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether as a main course or a side. Enjoy it warm or chill it for a refreshing treat any time of year!

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Ingredients

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• 300g uncooked orzo pasta
• 150g baby plum tomatoes
• 100g feta cheese
• 100g kalamata olives
• 75g cucumber
• Fresh parsley
• Lemon juice
• Red onion
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Red apple vinegar
• Dried oregano

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Instructions

1. Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
2. Add halved tomatoes, cubed feta, olives, diced onion, and garlic to the bowl. Stir gently to combine and let marinate for at least an hour.
3. Cook orzo in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.
4. Add cooled orzo to the salad mixture along with diced cucumber and lemon juice. Mix well and adjust seasoning before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 285
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 15mg