Go Back
Greek cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and an unparalleled ability to bring people together around the dining table. One dish that epitomizes these qualities is the Greek Orzo Salad. This refreshing salad has become a staple in summer gatherings, family barbecues, and picnics, thanks to its lightness and versatility. It’s not just a side dish; it can stand alone as a satisfying meal or serve as a beautiful complement to grilled meats and seafood.

Cold Greek Orzo Salad

Discover the vibrant flavors of a Greek Orzo Salad, the perfect dish for summer gatherings! This refreshing salad features orzo pasta, crisp vegetables like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese. It’s not just a side; it can be a satisfying meal on its own. With a simple olive oil and vinegar dressing and fresh herbs, this versatile dish is bursting with nutrients and Mediterranean taste. Enjoy it at your next picnic or barbecue!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

½ red onion, finely chopped

½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

¼ cup fresh dill, chopped (optional)

⅓ cup olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Orzo: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the orzo. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the orzo cooks, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion.

      Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until combined.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and herbs (parsley and dill).

          Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss until everything is well combined and coated with the dressing.

            Chill: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

              Serve: Before serving, give the salad a final toss, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Enjoy your refreshing Greek orzo salad as a light meal or a perfect side dish!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4-6 servings