🇬🇷 Greek Orzo Salad (Mediterranean Diet)
📝 Description
Greek Orzo Salad is a light yet satisfying Mediterranean classic made with tender orzo pasta, crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. Inspired by traditional Greek flavors, it’s perfect as a healthy lunch, side dish, or make-ahead meal. This salad is refreshing, colorful, and packed with heart-healthy ingredients the Mediterranean diet is known for.
🍋 Ingredients
Salad
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1 cup dry orzo pasta
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1 cup cucumber, diced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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⅓ cup red onion, finely chopped
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¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
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¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh dill or mint, chopped
Dressing
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3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
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Juice of 1 lemon
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1 clove garlic, minced
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½ teaspoon dried oregano
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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Salt to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
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Cook the orzo in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop cooking.
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Prepare vegetables: In a large bowl, combine cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, parsley, and dill.
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Make the dressing: Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Assemble: Add cooled orzo to the vegetables. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
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Finish: Fold in feta cheese. Adjust seasoning if needed.
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Chill or serve immediately.
🍽 Serving Ideas
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Serve as a side with grilled fish or chicken
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Enjoy as a light vegetarian main
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Perfect for picnics, potlucks, and meal prep
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling for 30–60 minutes. Add feta just before serving for best texture.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Absolutely — substitute orzo with gluten-free orzo, quinoa, or brown rice.
Q: How long does it keep in the fridge?
A: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Q: Can I add protein?
A: Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or white beans work beautifully.
Q: Is this Mediterranean-diet friendly?
A: Yes — it features whole ingredients, olive oil, vegetables, herbs, and moderate cheese, all core Mediterranean diet staples.
