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Home » Recipes » Pasta & Pizza

The Best Greek Orzo Salad

Published: Jun 28, 2022 by Eileen xo

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A pinterest pin with text overlay of greek pasta salad.
A pinterest pin of Greek orzo salad

Greek Orzo Salad, a perfect side dish that is takes 30-minutes for a delicious pasta salad made with bold flavors from veggies, tangy feta cheese, and a homemade lemon vinaigrette.

Jump to:
  • ❤️ Why you'll love this recipe
  • Ingredients
  • Dressing Ingredients
  • Equipment
  • Instructions
  • Storage
  • Expert Tips
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Variations
  • Shortcuts
  • Serving Suggestions
  • Similar recipes
  • Easy Greek Orzo Salad Recipe
  • 💬 Comments

❤️ Why you'll love this recipe

  • Our orzo salad is a less than 30-minute recipe that can be made with a variety of ingredients.
  • Create a full meal and add protein such as chicken or shrimp.
  • This orzo pasta salad recipe is a crowd pleaser, travels well for pot lucks, summer celebrations, and family gatherings.
  • The lemon vinaigrette has some of my favorite greek flavors and simple pantry staples for bold flavors that compliments this healthy pasta salad recipe.

Ingredients

The following are the main ingredients, full list below in the recipe card.

A large black pan filled with the ingredients to make an orzo salad.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

  • Orzo - A small pasta that cooks very quickly
  • English cucumber - a seedless cucumber that adds crunch to the salad.
  • Bell Pepper - Any color bell pepper will work for this recipe. I like red, orange, or yellow for the brightness.
  • Feta cheese - A classic greek cheese that adds saltiness to the Greek pasta salad.
  • Red Onions - a favorite for this pasta salad but green onions, shallots, or yellow onions are also great options.
  • Kalamata olives - add a bit more saltiness to the salad that blends nicely with the vinaigrette.
  • Tomato -Use any type of tomato, such as grape or cherry tomatoes.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper add an extra level of flavor to the Greek orzo pasta.
Ingredients to make Greek Vinaigrette, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper for a pasta salad

Dressing Ingredients

  • Red Wine Vinegar - a classic flavor for the vinaigrette.
  • Olive Oil - any of your favorite oils can be used such as avocado, or grapeseed.
  • Oregano -If you have fresh oregano available, use about 1 Tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano.
  • Lemon Juice - balances the vinegar.

Equipment

  • 8 Quart Pasta Pot
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups
  • Knives
  • Cutting Board

Instructions

This is an overview of the recipe. The full instructions are below in the recipe card.

Step by step instructions for making orzo salad
  • Cook orzo according to the manufacturers instructions.
  • While the orzo cooks, cut up the veggies and olives.
  • In a small bowl, combine the ingredients for the vinaigrette. This can be made up to 2-3 days ahead of time.
  • Mix the veggies with the pasta and pour vinaigrette on the orzo. Refrigerate at least 1 hour and up to overnight, to blends flavors.

Storage

Leftovers can be kept in an airtight covered container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
The salad can be made ahead of time. The pasta salad really does taste even better the next day when the ingredients have had time to blend.
The Greek vinaigrette can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight covered container.

A large pan filled with cooked orzo with chopped vegetables, sliced olives, and a sprig of thyme.

Expert Tips

Expert Tip: Once the large pot of water comes to a boil for the orzo, add salt to the boiling water and then the orzo. The salted water adds flavor to the pasta.

  • Use the time wisely, while waiting for the water to boil, cut up the veggies, make the vinaigrette.
  • Orzo Salad is a great next day salad. In other words, make it a day ahead and use the storage suggestions to keep the salad in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this orzo salad recipe ahead of time?

Yes. The salad can be made the day before and add the lemon vinaigrette dressing. Let the salad sit in the refrigerator in a covered large mixing bowl

What olives should I use in the salad?

My preference is to use a pitted kalamata olives. Black olives can also be used.

What is orzo?

Orzo is a rice like pasta that is very popular in Mediterranean recipes. It is not naturally gluten-free however, you can purchase gluten-free orzo.

Does the orzo need to be rinsed before cooking?

No. There is no need to rinse the pasta before cooking it.

Variations

This is an orzo salad, however, feel free to use small pasta such as penne, ziti, or rotini.

Artichoke hearts can be added to the salad.

Use chickpeas in place of pasta.

  • Add baked chicken breast to the salad.
  • Grilled Greek Gyro Chicken is a tasty addition.
  • Poached Shrimp would be delish.
  • Add in Greek Marinated Chicken for more protein.

Shortcuts

  • Short on time, purchase precut vegetables at your local grocery store.
  • If you are in a rush, store made Greek vinaigrette can be used.
  • Sliced kalamata olives are easy to find in any grocery store.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Baked Crispy Chicken Drumsticks, one of my personal favorites
Baked Chicken Quarters would be a great match.
Marinated Chicken Drumsticks would be a. great combo.
Parmesan Chicken Tenders would be fantastic with this pasta salad recipe.
Chicken Sausage Vegetable Skillet is another great choice to pair with the Greek pasta salad.

Similar recipes

My Homemade Macaroni Salad is always a hit.

Lentil Salad is a great make-ahead salad that is great for summer BBQs, the 4th of July, actually any day.

Greek Chicken Salad is a light and refreshing salad that is quick and easy to prepare.

This recipe was originally published on June 9, 2020 and updated for user experience.

I love any comments or questions, please feel free to leave them below.

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Eileen  xo

If you click on the number of servings in the recipe card you can adjust the measurements up or down for the exact number of servings you need.

If you love this recipe please give it 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A large black pan holding orzo salad

Easy Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

A delicious easy Greek Orzo Salad. This is a fantastic make-ahead recipe for any time of year. Even better made a day ahead. Greek-inspired flavors top the pasta and veggie salad. Perfect for lunch, picnics, side for burgers, gyros.
5 from 9 votes
Print Pin Rate
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Course: lunch, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keyword: Greek orzo salad, orzo salad, orzo salad recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
minimum chill time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 22 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 402kcal
Author: Eileen Kelly

Equipment Needed:

  • As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
  • 8 Quart Pasta Pot
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups
  • Knives
  • Cutting Board

Ingredients

Greek Orzo Salad

  • 8 ounces dried orzo pasta
  • 1 medium English cucumber, chopped
  • 1 large any color bell pepper, seeded and diced
  • 1 small red onion, peeled and finely diced
  • ½ cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved Note 3
  • ⅓ cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 8 ounces crumbled feta cheese

Greek Lemon Vinaigrette

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2-3 Tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 Tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 6 Tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 Tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
  • salt and ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Let pasta cool.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled orzo, diced cucumbers, bell pepper, diced red onion, grape tomatoes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
  • Mix in the Greek Lemon Vinaigrette,( recipe below) combine well.
  • Refrigerate for at least an hour, up to overnight to blend flavors.

Greek Vinaigrette

  • In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the garlic, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, olive oil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Taste for seasoning, re-season if needed.
  • Serve over the orzo salad.

Notes

Be sure to check the Expert Tips and FAQs above with important tips and questions that can help make a delicious recipe.
Storage: 
  • Store the pasta salad in a covered airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours. 
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Any nutritional data I provide is an approximation and actual dietary information can vary based on ingredients and proportion sizes.
 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 402kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 34mg | Sodium: 545mg | Potassium: 267mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1172IU | Vitamin C: 41mg | Calcium: 216mg | Iron: 1mg
Tried this recipe?Mention @Everyday_Eileen or tag #everydayeileen!

More Pasta & Pizza

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Thank you for sharing!

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  • Share53
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Comments

  1. Jenny

    July 05, 2020 at 3:16 pm

    5 stars
    This salad has all the Greek flavors I love! And you have great suggestions for add ons. This orzo salad will be on our weekly rotation this summer. Thank you for the great recipe.

    Reply
    • Eileen xo

      July 07, 2020 at 12:39 am

      Wonderful Jenny. I'm so glad you enjoy the recipe.

      Reply
  2. Denise

    July 05, 2020 at 9:44 am

    5 stars
    This Greek Orzo salad looks perfect! I love all the delicious flavors and ingredients, this will be great for summer picnics for sure!

    Reply
    • Eileen xo

      July 07, 2020 at 12:39 am

      Awesome Denise. Glad you love the salad.

      Reply
  3. Paula Montenegro

    July 05, 2020 at 4:51 am

    5 stars
    Any recipe with the word Greek in it has my attention. This is a gorgeous salad and we love it here! The mix of flavors is fresh and delicious, and I also love the lemon tahini dressing you mention. Can't wait to try that one too.

    Reply
    • Eileen xo

      July 07, 2020 at 12:40 am

      I'm glad you enjoy it. Definitely try the lemon tahini dressing. It's delish with this salad too.

      Reply
  4. Veronika

    July 04, 2020 at 10:03 am

    5 stars
    I love orzo salad! It's easy to make, filling, and perfect for any Summer party! Want to try your version this weekend, it looks delicious!

    Reply
    • Eileen xo

      July 07, 2020 at 12:41 am

      I hope you enjoy the salad, Veronika.

      Reply
  5. Lori | The Kitchen Whisperer

    July 03, 2020 at 3:57 pm

    5 stars
    Mmmm I LOVE Orzo so much and this salad looks scrumptious! I bet this would be awesome as a main dish with shrimp or chicken! Adding this to my meal plan for sure!

    Reply
    • Eileen xo

      July 19, 2020 at 2:04 pm

      Wonderful Lori. We make this all the time. Yes, add in some protein for a one pot could salad dinner.

      Reply
  6. Elaine

    July 03, 2020 at 2:15 pm

    5 stars
    This salad is just too good. Love the amount of healthy ingredients and I bet the taste goes through the roof!

    Reply
    • Eileen xo

      July 19, 2020 at 2:05 pm

      Elaine, this is always a hit, enjoy.

      Reply
  7. Kushigalu

    July 02, 2020 at 12:15 am

    5 stars
    Love orzo and the flavor combo you have used in this dish. Perfect recipe for summer. Yum!

    Reply
    • Eileen xo

      July 02, 2020 at 12:16 pm

      I'm so glad you enjoy the orzo recipe.

      Reply
  8. HEATHER PERINE

    June 30, 2020 at 10:44 am

    5 stars
    Saving this recipe to make this summer for sure! Love that I can make it ahead of time too! Thanks for sharing:)

    Reply
    • Eileen xo

      July 19, 2020 at 2:05 pm

      An easy make ahead salad, Heather. Enjoy it.

      Reply
  9. Kathryn

    June 29, 2020 at 2:51 pm

    5 stars
    I love orzo pasta and pasta salads so this is a must try recipe. It seems super simple and easy to make for a summer bbq 🙂 Thank you!

    Reply
    • Eileen xo

      July 19, 2020 at 2:05 pm

      Wonderful Kathryn, enjoy the pasta.

      Reply

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