This Mediterranean orzo pasta salad is bright and full of flavor! With cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and a zesty dressing, it’s like a little trip to the sunshine.
It’s super easy to make, and I love how it tastes fresh. Perfect for picnics or just a quick lunch! Plus, you can add your favorite veggies—no rules here! 🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny rice-shaped pasta is perfect for salads. If you can’t find orzo, try using couscous, quinoa, or even small pasta shapes like ditalini or farfalle as alternatives.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and color. If out of season, substitute with canned diced tomatoes (drain them first) or use grape tomatoes, which are also sweet and firm.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber gives crunch. If you want a twist, use diced bell peppers instead, or opt for pickles for added tang.
Olives: Black olives give a Mediterranean touch. If you’re not a fan, green olives or capers can add a different briny flavor.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a salty flavor. If vegan or lactose-intolerant, try using a vegan feta or omit the cheese entirely for a lighter touch.
How Do I Perfectly Cook Orzo Pasta?
Cooking orzo may seem simple, but it’s key to getting a delightful texture. Follow these steps to ensure it turns out great:
- Start with 2 cups of water in a saucepan for 1 cup of orzo; plenty of water helps prevent sticking.
- Once boiling, add the orzo and stir to prevent clumping.
- Cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. This means it should be soft but still have a slight bite.
- After draining, rinse under cold water. This helps stop the cooking process and cools it down for your salad.
With these tips, your orzo will be perfectly cooked and ready to mingle with all the fresh flavors in your pasta salad!
Easy Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Vegetables:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. If you have some extra time, letting it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes can really help the flavors combine beautifully, but it’s also tasty right away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Once the water is boiling, add the orzo pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too soft!
2. Cool the Orzo:
After the orzo is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down quickly. Set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
3. Mix the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red and green bell peppers, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives (if you’re using them), and chopped parsley. This colorful mix is the heart of your salad!
4. Combine the Orzo and Vegetables:
Add the cooled orzo pasta to the bowl of vegetables. Gently toss everything together so the pasta and veggies are well mixed.
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing adds a lovely flavor to your salad!
6. Toss and Serve:
Pour the dressing over the orzo salad and toss everything together until it’s well coated. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top. You can serve the salad right away, or for the best flavor, cover it and refrigerate for about 30 minutes before enjoying!
Enjoy your refreshing Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great substitute and will add a nutty flavor and a bit more fiber to the salad. Just be mindful that it may take a minute or two longer to cook, so check the package instructions for the best timing.
What Other Veggies Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your salad with your favorite vegetables! Zucchini, spinach, or artichoke hearts all work well. Just chop them up and add to the mixing bowl, keeping in mind that some veggies may require a bit of cooking or roasting first for the best flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing might settle. If it seems dry, add a splash of olive oil or a little more vinegar to freshen it up!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours ahead! Just follow the recipe and refrigerate it to let the flavors meld. For the best taste and texture, add the feta cheese right before serving to keep it crumbly and fresh.
