A refreshing Mediterranean-inspired salad with orzo pasta, fresh veggies, feta cheese, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light meal.
Author:Emily
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Category:Salad / Side Dish
Method:Boiling + Tossing
Cuisine:Greek / Mediterranean
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 lb (16 oz) orzo pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (optional)
For the dressing:
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cook orzo pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, feta, parsley, and dill.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Pour dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is well coated.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Notes
Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a full meal.
Can be made a day ahead — just refresh with extra dressing if needed.