Mediterranean Orzo Salad With Herbs

Name: Mediterranean Orzo Salad With Herbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Exotic Dishes

I absolutely love making this Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Herbs! The bright flavors of fresh herbs and the nutty bite of orzo create a delightful dish that is perfect for warm weather. Whether it’s a picnic or a backyard gathering, this salad always impresses. What I enjoy most is how simple it is to prepare, yet it feels special enough for guests. The combination of ingredients provides a refreshing taste that keeps everyone coming back for more, making it one of my go-to recipes.

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:45:36.373Z

When I first tackled this Mediterranean Orzo Salad, I didn’t expect it to become a staple dish in my kitchen. The vibrant colors and flavors created an irresistible dish that captured the essence of the Mediterranean coast. I learned that letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors, making each bite burst with freshness.

During my experimentation with dressing ratios, I discovered that a balance between olive oil and lemon juice gives the salad a refreshing kick without overwhelming the herbs. Each herb brings its unique sparkle, and adjusting ingredients based on seasonal availability ensures I can make this dish all year round.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh herbs create an aromatic experience with every bite.
Nutty orzo offers a delightful texture that pairs beautifully with vegetables.
Easy to customize with seasonal ingredients, making it a year-round favorite.

Perfecting the Orzo Texture

When cooking the orzo, timing is crucial. Follow the package instructions closely, but taste test a minute before the recommended cooking time. You want the orzo to be al dente—cooked through but still firm. This texture holds up better against the vibrant vegetables and dressing, providing a pleasant chew that complements the soft ingredients.

After draining the orzo, rinsing it under cold water not only stops the cooking process but also lowers the temperature, ensuring that your salad remains crisp. Avoid skipping this step, as warm orzo can wilt the fresh herbs and vegetables, potentially resulting in a mushy salad that isn't as appealing.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

One of the great things about this Mediterranean Orzo Salad is its versatility. If you’re unable to find Kalamata olives, for example, green olives can make a great substitute. They offer a different, yet delightful, briny flavor that complements the other ingredients. Similarly, if you don’t have feta cheese on hand, crumbled goat cheese serves as an excellent alternative, adding a creamy tanginess.

Seasonal vegetables can also enhance this dish. In summer, consider adding diced zucchini or bell peppers for extra crunch. In fall, roasted butternut squash cubes can introduce a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory dressing. Experimenting with different combinations allows you to enjoy this salad throughout the year!

Make-Ahead Tips and Serving Suggestions

This orzo salad can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for prepping ahead of time. Once mixed, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen overnight, and it will be ready to serve when you are. Just be sure to give it a gentle toss before serving, as ingredients can settle.

To enhance the presentation, consider serving the salad in a large, shallow bowl surrounded by extra fresh herbs as a garnish. This not only elevates the visual appeal but also gives a hint of freshness that intrigues the palate. Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal, or simply enjoy it as a refreshing side dish!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this vibrant Mediterranean Orzo Salad:

For the Salad

1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, you can start preparing your salad!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Mediterranean Orzo Salad:

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the orzo is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. In a large bowl, combine all the cut vegetables.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooled orzo, olives, feta cheese, parsley, and basil to the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently to combine.

Chill and Serve

Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Serve cold and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Orzo Salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider grilling the vegetables before adding them to the salad. You can also substitute shrimp or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.

Storing Leftovers

If you've got leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. However, keep in mind that the vegetables may release moisture, making the salad less crunchy over time. To help maintain its freshness, consider separating the dressing and adding it just before serving.

If freezing is necessary, portion out the salad into smaller containers. However, I recommend freezing only the orzo mixed with dressing, as fresh vegetables may not retain their texture once thawed. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and mix it up fresh before eating.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your salad turns out too salty, it could be due to the feta or olives. To balance the flavors, add an extra lemon juice splash or additional diced cucumber to help absorb the excess salt. Mixing in some cooked potatoes could also provide bulk and mellow out the overall flavor.

If you find the dressing too acidic, a small drizzle of honey or a dash of sugar can help round out the taste. Always taste as you mix to achieve the best flavor profile that suits your preference. Adjusting seasonings in small increments ensures you don’t overpower the other vibrant flavors in the salad.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Absolutely! This salad actually tastes better after marinating in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you prefer a non-dairy option, try using avocado or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a similar flavor.

→ Can I use other kinds of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the orzo with other small pasta types like couscous or ditalini.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta alternative.