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Orzo Pasta Salad: A Fresh Mediterranean-Inspired Delight

This versatile Mediterranean-inspired orzo pasta salad combines small pasta with fresh vegetables, herbs, and tangy feta for a light, refreshing dish perfect for lunch or as a side. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it's a healthier alternative to traditional pasta salads.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Greek, Mediterranean
Servings 6 servings
Calories 285 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Colander

Ingredients
  

For the Salad

  • 2 cups orzo pasta substitute with farro or pearl couscous for a different texture
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cucumber diced
  • 1/2 red onion finely diced
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives pitted and halved
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint chopped
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts toasted (optional)

For the Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (typically 8-10 minutes). Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  • While the orzo cooks, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to prepare the dressing.
  • Transfer the cooled orzo to a large mixing bowl. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, and fresh herbs. Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to combine.
  • Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and optional toasted pine nuts, reserving a small amount for garnish.
  • Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Give it a final gentle toss before serving, garnish with reserved feta and herbs.

Notes

Soak the red onion in cold water for 10 minutes before adding to the salad to reduce its sharpness.
This salad keeps exceptionally well in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
For a complete meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
For a gluten-free version, use rice or corn-based orzo alternatives.
For a vegan option, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 540IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 110mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Orzo Pasta Salad, Mediterranean Salad, Healthy Pasta Salad, Cold Pasta Salad
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