Greek Orzo Salad

Greek Orzo Salad is a vibrant and flavorful pasta salad that combines the best of Mediterranean ingredients with the comfort of orzo pasta. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light meal. It typically features orzo, feta cheese, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a variety of fresh herbs, all tied together with a zesty dressing.

Key Ingredients

• Orzo Pasta: The base of the salad, orzo is a small, grain-like pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
• Feta Cheese: Adds a tangy, salty taste that is quintessential to Greek cuisine.
• Cucumbers and Tomatoes: Provide freshness and crunch.
• Olives: Kalamata olives are commonly used for their rich, fruity flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley and basil add a bright, herbaceous note.
• Dressing: Typically includes olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and sometimes red wine vinegar or creamy feta dressing for added depth.

How to Make Greek Orzo Salad

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the cucumbers, halve the tomatoes, slice the olives, and chop the red onion. Fresh parsley and basil should also be chopped.
3. Make the Dressing: For a classic vinaigrette, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Alternatively, you can make a creamy feta dressing by blending feta cheese with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and herbs.
4. Combine Everything: In a large bowl, toss the cooled orzo with the prepared vegetables, olives, and herbs. Add the dressing and mix well. If using feta, it’s best to crumble it on top just before serving to preserve its texture.

Pro Tips

• Cool the Orzo: Cooling the orzo helps prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and basil add a lot of flavor, so use them generously.
• Adjust the Dressing: Taste as you go and adjust the dressing to your liking. You can always add more, but it’s harder to remove excess dressing.
• Add Protein: Consider adding chickpeas or grilled chicken to make the salad more substantial.

Variations and Substitutions

• Add Chickpeas: For extra protein and fiber, chickpeas are a great addition.
• Use Different Olives: While Kalamata olives are traditional, you can experiment with other varieties like black olives or green olives.
• Substitute Pasta: If orzo is not available, small pasta shapes like ditalini or Israeli couscous work well.
• Marinated Peppers: Adding marinated peppers can add a sweet and tangy element to the salad.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled meats or fish.
• Main Course: Add protein like chicken or chickpeas to make it more filling.
• Potluck Favorite: Its colorful presentation and flavorful profile make it a hit at gatherings.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a dish to impress at a dinner party, Greek Orzo Salad is a versatile and delicious choice that never fails to please.