Greek Orzo Salad Recipe with Feta (Easy!)

By Elena

5 from 4 reviews

May 15, 2024, Updated Oct 06, 2024

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Greek Orzo Salad Recipe with Feta (Easy!)—Packed with fresh veggies and a zingy Greek dressing, this salad is a summer must-have! It’s the perfect side dish for your next picnic or BBQ.

You will also love my grilled veggie lemon orzo salad and panzenella salad!

finished greek orzo pasta salad recipe in a large serving bowl with ingredients around it (basil and pine nuts.
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Best Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

This Greek Orzo pasta salad combines all the perfect flavors and textures!

  • Fresh and Vibrant Flavors: Combining fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty Greek dressing creates vibrant and refreshing flavors in every bite.
  • Satisfying and Filling: The combination of pasta, cheese, and vegetables makes this salad satisfying and filling. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as a substantial side dish.
  • Great for Meal Prep: This salad holds up well in the refrigerator, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Prepare a batch and enjoy it throughout the week, saving time on daily meal preparation.

Try my Mediterranean lasagna recipe next. And here’s an orzo recipe you will surely enjoy – butternut squash orzo!

greek salad in a bowl with a fork. Big orzo greek salad bowl in the background.

Table of Contents

Simple Ingredients

This one-dish pasta salad packs in lots of fresh veggies and flavors.

ingredients for recipe.
  • Orzo Pasta: A small rice-shaped pasta that adds a hearty texture to the salad, providing a base for the other ingredients.
  • Persian Cucumbers: These cucumbers have a crisp texture and mild flavor.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: bring a burst of sweetness and vibrant color to the salad. Make sure to get flavorful and juicy tomatoes.
  • Feta Cheese: add a creamy and tangy element, balancing the flavors of the other ingredients. You can use crumbles or cubes.
  • Red Onion: provides a sharp and slightly spicy taste.
  • Kalamata Olives: offer a briny olive and salty flavor, complementing the other ingredients in the Greek salad.
  • Fresh Basil: brings a sweet and aromatic note to the salad, enhancing its freshness.
  • Fresh Mint Leaves: contribute an incredible herbaceous flavor, adding depth to the salad.
ingredients for Greek dressing.

Greek Salad Dressing:

  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The base of the dressing, olive oil adds richness and a smooth texture.
  • Red Wine Vinegar: Adds a tangy and slightly fruity flavor to the dressing, balancing the richness of the olive oil.
  • Salt and Pepper: Seasonings to enhance the overall taste of the dressing.
  • Lemon Juice: Adds a bright and citrusy element, bringing a fresh zing to the dressing.
  • Garlic: Minced garlic provides a savory and aromatic kick to the dressing.
  • Dried Oregano: A classic Greek herb that imparts the dressing a warm and earthy flavor.
  • Dijon Mustard: Adds a hint of tanginess and helps emulsify the dressing for a cohesive texture.

See the recipe card for quantities.

How to Make Greek Orzo Salad (step-by-step)

This recipe is easy to prepare and has simple instructions, making it convenient for a quick and delicious main dish or side dish. See the recipe card for full instrcutions.

Make the Greek Salad Dressing

how to make greek dressing for Greek orzo salad recipe.

In a small bowl, make the homemade Greek Salad Dressing.

Alternatively, you can shake ingredients in a small jar with a lid. Set aside.

Cook the pasta and assemble the salad.

how to make easy Greek Salad Recipe step-by-step photos: cook orzo pasta and let cool.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Prepare the pasta according to the package directions or until al dente. As it cools, the pasta continues to cook a bit. 

how to make easy Greek Salad Recipe step-by-step photos: mix pasta and dressing.

Drain the orzo and add to a large mixing bowl. Do not rinse pasta with cold water or lay it on a baking sheet to cool; use this method instead for a more flavorful-tasting pasta salad. 

how to make easy Greek Salad Recipe step-by-step photos: fresh veggies in a large bowl.

Once the pasta is cooled, combine it with the fresh herbs and veggies.

how to make easy Greek Salad Recipe step-by-step photos: toss the pasta, veggies, feta, and rest of the dressing.

Pour the rest of the Greek Salad Dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

how to make easy Greek Salad Recipe step-by-step photos: mix all of the ingredients in a bowl with a wooden spoon.

Sprinkle with pine nuts (if using) just before serving. This healthy pasta salad is a great make-ahead meal for your next potluck or meal prep idea.

Substitutions

  • Orzo Pasta: If you don’t have orzo, substitute with couscous, quinoa, or another small pasta shape.
  • Persian Cucumbers: Regular cucumbers can be used if Persian cucumbers are not available. Make sure to remove the seeds if using regular cucumbers.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes or diced Roma tomatoes can be used as alternatives to cherry tomatoes.
  • Feta Cheese: If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, consider using vegan feta or cubed avocado for a creamy texture.
  • Red Onion: Swap with green onions or sweet onions for a milder flavor.
  • Kalamata Olives: Use black olives or green olives as a substitute for Kalamata olives.
  • Fresh Basil and Mint: If fresh herbs are not available, you can use dried basil and mint. Adjust the quantities to taste.
  • Greek Salad Dressing: If you don’t have all the ingredients for the dressing, you can use a store-bought Greek dressing as a time-saving alternative.
greek salad in a bowl with a fork. Big orzo greek salad bowl in the background.

Variations

  • Protein Boost: For an additional protein boost, incorporate grilled chicken, leftover rotisserie chicken, shrimp, garbanzo beans, or tofu, turning the salad into a complete and filling meal.
  • Greek Orzo with Artichokes: Add marinated artichoke hearts for a briny and tangy twist. They contribute a unique flavor and complement the Mediterranean theme. Add a bit of lemon zest for fresh flavor.
  • Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Orzo Salad: For an intense burst of flavor, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and bell peppers. The sweetness of the tomatoes pairs well with the salty feta.

Storage

This pasta salad will last 3-5 days in the fridge in an airtight container. The pasta will soak up the dressing as it sits. If you find it a bit dry, refresh it by adding more sauce just before serving. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.

I think this pasta salad tastes even better the next day!

Top tips

  • Fresh and Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh and high-quality ingredients. Choose ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and quality feta cheese.
  • Balanced Dressing: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust the balance of acidity, sweetness, and saltiness to achieve a well-rounded flavor.
  • Chill for Flavor: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavors and allows the ingredients to meld together.

FAQs

Can I Make Greek Orzo Salad in Advance?

Yes, Greek Orzo Salad is perfect for making in advance. It allows the flavors to meld together. Store it in the refrigerator and refresh with a bit more dressing before serving if needed.

greek salad in a bowl with a fork. Big orzo greek salad bowl in the background. Bite on a fork.

Looking for other recipes? Try these:

Serving Suggestions

These are my favorite dishes to serve with this pasta salad:

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cover photo greek orzo salad.

Easy Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 4 reviews

  • Author: Elena
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Print Recipe

Description

Greek Orzo Salad Recipe with Feta (Easy!)– packed with fresh veggies and a zingy Greek dressing- this is a salad you will crave all summer! It’s the perfect side dish for your next picnic or BBQ.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Greek Orzo Salad

  • 1 1/2 cups dry orzo pasta
  • 2 Persian cucumbers, halved vertically and sliced
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half
  • 4 ounces feta cheese, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
  • 1/3 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
  • 1/4 cup pinenuts (optional)

Greek Salad Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil +1 tablespoon
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. To make the Greek salad dressing, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, and Dijon mustard in a Small Bowl. Alternatively, shake the ingredients in a small jar with a lid. Set aside.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Prepare the pasta according to the package directions or until al dente. As it cools, the pasta continues to cook a bit. 
  3. Drain the orzo and add to a large mixing bowl. Toss a few times with a wooden spoon to release the hot steam (about 1-2 minutes). Then, stir in 1 tablespoon of the dressing. Toss to combine and let cool for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to cool past.. Do not rinse pasta with cold water or lay it on a baking sheet to cool; use this method instead for a more flavorful tasting pasta salad. 
  4. Once pasta is cooled, combine with the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, feta cheese cubes, diced red onion, pitted Kalamata olives, chopped fresh basil, and chopped fresh mint leaves.
  5. Pour the rest of the Greek Salad Dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Season the salad with freshly ground black pepper to taste (if desired).
  6. Refrigerate the Greek Orzo Salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Sprinkle with pine nuts (if using) just before serving. 
  7. Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious Greek Orzo Salad!

Notes

TIPS

  • Fresh and Quality Ingredients: Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Choose ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and quality feta cheese.
  • Balanced Dressing: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust the balance of acidity, sweetness, and saltiness to achieve a well-rounded flavor.
  • Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavors and allows the ingredients to meld together.

  • Prep Time: 10-15 min
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Savory
  • Method: Italian
  • Cuisine: Greek

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About Elena

My dream is to share delicious wholesome recipes that you will share around the table with all your loved ones. The memories surrounded by food are the heart and soul of CucinaByElena.

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7 Comments

  1. Your recipes are a hit with my family, you definitely don’t disappoint, we loved it “Yummy”. The recipe was easy to follow, thank you for sharing.



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