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; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Health Kitchen

I love creating vibrant salads that burst with flavor, and the Mediterranean Orzo Salad With Herbs is one of my favorites. It perfectly combines the nutty texture of orzo pasta with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also pleasing to the eye, making it a great option for summer picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing side for any meal. The herbs elevate the flavors and give it a delightful freshness that keeps me coming back for more.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:17:36.037Z

When I first tried making a Mediterranean Orzo Salad, I was blown away by how simple ingredients could create such a rich, fresh flavor. Using high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs made all the difference, enhancing the dish incredibly. Additions like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers not only provide crunch but also allow the orzo to shine through.

One of my favorite tips is to let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the salad becomes even tastier. Trust me, you’ll savor every bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutty orzo complements fresh vegetables beautifully
Herbs provide a burst of flavor with every bite
Perfect dish for any season or occasion

Ingredient Highlights

Each component of this Mediterranean Orzo Salad plays a vital role in contributing to the overall flavor and texture. The orzo is not just a filling base; its nutty taste and slightly chewy texture act as a canvas for the vibrant ingredients. Cherry tomatoes offer a pop of sweetness, while cucumbers bring in a refreshing crunch. Don’t shy away from choosing a bell pepper variety that suits your palate—whether it’s yellow for sweetness or green for a sharper taste, it can enhance your salad's complexity.

Herbs play a crucial role in this dish, introducing bright notes that keep the salad feeling light and fresh. The parsley adds a mild flavor with a hint of earthiness, while basil brings aromatic sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy feta. If fresh herbs are unavailable, you can substitute with dried herbs, but reduce the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated. Just be sure to let them rehydrate in the dressing for a bit before mixing them into the salad.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the fantastic aspects of the Mediterranean Orzo Salad is its suitability for meal prep. You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance; however, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the vegetables from becoming soggy, preserving their crunch. To store, place the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you notice the orzo absorbing some of the dressing over time, simply drizzle with a bit more olive oil and vinegar before serving to revive the flavors.

For those looking to cater to dietary preferences, this salad is highly customizable. You can swap out the feta cheese for crumbled goat cheese for a tangy twist, or for a dairy-free option, use a plant-based feta. Additionally, consider incorporating chickpeas or cannellini beans for added protein, making it not just a side dish but a complete meal. These substitutions not only enhance the nutritional profile but also introduce lovely textures.

Ingredients

For the Salad

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
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Cook the Orzo

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the orzo cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Combine these in a large bowl.

Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

Combine Everything

Add the cooled orzo to the vegetables along with the chopped parsley and basil. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to combine. Finally, fold in the crumbled feta cheese.

Serve

For best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your refreshing Mediterranean Orzo Salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to add olives or sun-dried tomatoes. Experiment with different herbs to find your perfect combination!

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Orzo Salad is versatile enough to be served as a side or main dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even alongside a vegetable platter. A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper when serving can elevate the dish further and add an extra layer of flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, try topping the salad with toasted pine nuts for a lovely crunch and enhanced nuttiness.

For a more substantial meal, consider adding protein directly into the salad. Grilled shrimp or diced grilled chicken can make the salad hearty enough for lunch or dinner. You can also serve it over a bed of mixed greens to incorporate more veggies and create a colorful presentation. Remember, the key is to ensure everything is well-integrated, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Variations to Explore

While this salad is already vibrant, there are several variations you can experiment with to suit your tastes. Try adding olives for a briny balance that complements the feta, or roasted red peppers for a sweet, smoky flavor. For a kick, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes in the dressing can add some heat without overpowering the fresh ingredients.

Another addition could be seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini. Lightly grilling or roasting these before cooling can add a depth of flavor while keeping within the Mediterranean theme. Whatever variation you choose, ensure that the balance of acidity from the dressing remains intact, as it’s crucial for enlivening the overall dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator and give it a good toss before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I include?

You can add vegetables like artichokes, zucchini, or carrots for more variety.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta options.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.