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Greek Orzo Salad

Greek Orzo Salad: Refreshing Summer Twist You’ll Love

Enjoy a light and refreshing Greek Orzo Salad packed with flavor, perfect for summer meals.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup orzo substitute with couscous for a different grain
  • 1 cup vegetable stock chicken stock can be used for a richer taste
  • 1 cup water balances your cooking liquid for optimal orzo consistency
  • 1 cup feta cheese ricotta or goat cheese works as a delightful alternative
  • 2 cloves roasted garlic fresh minced garlic can be a suitable substitute
  • 1 small shallot switch to red onion for a sharper taste
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes diced regular tomatoes can also be used
  • 1 medium cucumber mini or pickled cucumbers can serve as alternatives
  • 1/2 cup olives use a mix of green and black olives or omit if necessary
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil mix and match according to preference
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley
For the Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil avocado oil is a tasty substitute
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest lime zest offers a lively twist
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice lime juice can also be used
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar apple cider vinegar can act as a viable replacement
  • to taste salt adjust according to your taste preference
  • to taste pepper adjust according to your taste preference

Equipment

  • Medium pot
  • Colander
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a medium pot of vegetable stock and water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it under cold water until cooled, stopping the cooking process.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled, drained orzo and drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss the orzo gently to ensure it’s evenly coated, preventing any sticking.
  3. To the bowl with the orzo, add crumbled feta cheese, roasted garlic, finely chopped shallot, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and olives. Zest and juice a lemon directly over the mixture, then add your freshly chopped basil, mint, and parsley. Toss everything gently to combine.
  4. Taste the salad before adding any additional seasonings, adjusting salt and pepper to suit your preference. Once seasoned, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together.
  5. When you're ready to enjoy, remove the Greek Orzo Salad from the refrigerator. Serve it chilled as a refreshing side dish, or make it a delightful light meal by topping it with grilled chicken or fish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

It's best served cold or at room temperature. Leftovers can keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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