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 bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 garlic clove, minced

Highlighted under: International Food Favorites

I absolutely love making Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Herbs, especially during the warmer months when fresh herbs and vegetables are abundant. This vibrant dish combines the nutty flavor of orzo with a medley of colorful veggies and zesty herbs, creating a refreshing, filling salad. It's perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues or even as a light lunch. I always toss in a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing, and it’s a great way to use up whatever herbs I have on hand. Minimum fuss, maximum flavor – that’s what this dish is all about!

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:37:35.940Z

When I first tried making Mediterranean Orzo Salad, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors melded together. Using high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs really elevates this dish, turning it into something special. I often tweak the veggies based on what I have, like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, which add a delightful crunch.

One essential tip I've learned is to let the salad sit for a bit after mixing, as this allows the orzo to absorb all the delicious flavors from the dressing and herbs. Trust me; it’s worth the wait!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and fresh flavors that awaken your taste buds
Versatile ingredients that can be mixed and matched
Perfect make-ahead meal for busy weekdays

Enhancing Flavor with Herbs

Fresh herbs are the backbone of this Mediterranean Orzo Salad, each adding its unique fragrance and taste. Parsley brings a vibrant green flavor, while basil introduces a sweet, peppery note. To make the most of your herbs, always use them fresh when possible. If you're in a pinch and need to substitute dried herbs, remember that dried herbs are more concentrated. Use one-third of the amount required for fresh herbs, and combine them with the dressing to let their flavors infuse beforehand.

When preparing your herbs, make sure to chop them finely to maximize their flavor exposure. This ensures that each bite of orzo salad is packed with herbaceous goodness. If you're growing your own herbs, consider staggering your planting for a continual harvest; this way, you'll always have fresh herbs available, and you can experiment with different combinations over the season.

Making the Perfect Dressing

The dressing in this orzo salad is key to achieving a refreshing, zesty flavor profile that brightens the entire dish. Whisking together olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice creates a fragrant base that not only enhances the salad but also helps to marry the flavors of the ingredients. An important tip is to ensure your olive oil is of good quality, as it significantly affects the salad's final taste. Look for extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor.

When adding the garlic, opt for fresh garlic cloves instead of pre-minced options to avoid an overpowering taste. Mince the garlic finely and let it rest after chopping; this allows the allicin compounds, which provide strong flavor, to develop fully before incorporating it into the dressing. If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of tahini to enhance the texture without overshadowing the Mediterranean essence.

Chilling and Serving Tips

After tossing your ingredients with the dressing, allow the dish to chill for at least 15 minutes. This resting period not only helps the flavors to meld but also cools the salad down, making it more refreshing, especially during warm months. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, you can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the vegetables might soften slightly, so serve it soon after making it for the crispest texture.

For serving ideas, consider pairing the Mediterranean Orzo Salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal or enjoy it as a standalone dish. You can also transform it into an appetizer by spooning it into lettuce cups for a light, crispy bite that others are sure to enjoy. Feel free to experiment by adding seasonal ingredients, such as olives, roasted red peppers, or even artichoke hearts, to make it your own.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start.

Salad Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Salt and pepper to taste

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 garlic clove, minced

Make sure to wash and prepare all your vegetables before starting.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad.

Cook the Orzo

In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Prepare the Veggies

While the orzo is cooking, chop your cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked orzo, chopped herbs, and feta cheese to the bowl with the veggies. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is well combined.

Chill and Serve

Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Orzo Salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding olives or avocado. You can also substitute the orzo with quinoa for a gluten-free version.

Storing and Make-Ahead Options

This salad is an excellent make-ahead option that stores well in an airtight container. To maintain the orzo's texture and keep the salad vibrant, consider dressing only the portion you plan to serve immediately. Instead, keep the dressing separate and add it right before serving for a fresher taste. This way, the vegetables retain their crunch, and the orzo remains al dente, providing a delightful eating experience.

If you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated for up to three days. However, keep in mind that some vegetables may continue to release moisture, so the salad might become slightly wetter. If it does, a quick toss with a small additional splash of olive oil or red wine vinegar can revitalize the flavors before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to adapt the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the orzo with quinoa or a gluten-free pasta variety. This retains the dish's hearty appeal while accommodating dietary restrictions. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, beans, or chickpeas to the salad, making it even more filling and nutritious.

You can also customize the flavor profile by incorporating different vegetables according to the season. Roasted zucchini, artichoke hearts, or sweet corn can add unique tastes and textures. Similarly, switching the feta cheese for goat cheese or omitting it altogether for a dairy-free option provides variety and allows you to cater to different dietary needs.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that the orzo has turned mushy, it may have been overcooked. Always aim for al dente, where the pasta is tender but retains some bite. Keep an eye on the cooking time and taste the orzo a minute or two before the recommended time on the package. If you ever overcook it despite your best efforts, a simple remedy is to chill the pasta in cold water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process.

For balancing flavors, if you taste the salad and find it too acidic, add a teaspoon of honey or a pinch of sugar to soften the tanginess. Conversely, if the salad feels bland, a sprinkle of salt or freshly cracked black pepper can enhance the flavors significantly. For an added kick, consider mixing in a pinch of red pepper flakes to bring warmth to the dish without overpowering the bright flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes! This salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just add the dressing right before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add artichoke hearts, zucchini, or spinach for more variety.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 days.

→ Is there a substitute for feta cheese?

Yes! You can use goat cheese, or leave it out completely for a vegan option.