Greek Pasta Salad Orzo

A chilled bowl of Greek pasta salad is a lifesaver for hot summer days picnic lunches quick potluck dishes or making lunches ahead of a busy week. Tender orzo soaks up all the flavor from bright vinaigrette while crisp cucumbers juicy tomatoes and briny olives mingle with creamy feta and chickpeas. This recipe has been a favorite for my family’s picnics and makes every gathering a little more special.

I first made this Greek pasta salad for a beach potluck we still remember how everyone went back for seconds and begged for the recipe

Ingredients

• Orzo pasta: Small pasta is just right for soaking up dressing and mingling with chopped veggies Look for Italian or bronze-cut for the best texture
• Red onion: For color crunch and a mellow sharpness Soaking in the vinaigrette mellows the bite Choose firm onions with shiny skin
• Bell pepper: Adds crunch and a sweet bite Choose peppers that feel heavy and glossy red or a mix for color
• Fresh oregano or dried oregano: Delivers classic Greek fragrance Fresh is powerful so adjust amounts if using dried
• Chickpeas: Offer plant-based protein and a nutty flavor Use low-sodium canned for best taste rinse well
• Kalamata olives: They bring a tangy flavor and beautiful color Look for preserved in brine and pit-free
• Thin-skinned cucumber: Adds juicy crunch Choose Persian or English cucumbers to avoid bitter skin
• Cherry tomatoes: Give sweetness and bright color Pick ripe ones for juiciest flavor
• Fresh parsley: Brings freshness and a pop of green Flat-leaf has better flavor than curly
• Basil and or mint: Optional but make the salad vibrant and aromatic Use fresh soft leaves only
• Feta cheese: Adds creamy richness Sheep’s feta has unbeatable creaminess Choose a block in brine for best result
• Red wine vinegar: Tangy and sharp delivers key balance Pick a good quality Greek or Mediterranean type
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness Freshly squeezed gives the best lively flavor
• Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing and adds depth
• Garlic: Fresh minced or pressed gives a pungent kick
• Dried oregano: Reinforces those classic Greek flavors
• Salt and black pepper: For seasoning to taste Use sea salt or kosher salt
• Olive oil: The base of the dressing Choose extra-virgin for smoothness and fruity notes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Orzo:

Bring a large pot of well salted water to a rolling boil Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package directions stirring occasionally for even cooking Once the pasta is tender but still holding its shape drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking Set aside and let it dry slightly so the salad will not be watery

Prepare the Greek Vinaigrette:

In a medium bowl whisk together red wine vinegar lemon juice dijon mustard minced garlic dried oregano salt and black pepper As you whisk slowly drizzle in the olive oil creating a silky emulsion Taste and adjust seasoning

Marinate the Onions:

In a large salad bowl combine the diced red onion with about half a cup of vinaigrette Let the onions soak while you prepare the other veggies This softens their sharpness and colors the dressing a pretty pink hue

Combine Veggies and Chickpeas:

Add chopped bell peppers chickpeas and kalamata olives into the bowl with the onions Toss gently so everything gets a bit of the vinaigrette exposure

Add Cucumber Tomato and Parsley:

Chop the cucumbers tomatoes and parsley and add them to the bowl Mix gently so all ingredients get a light coating of dressing

Add Orzo and Feta:

Fold in the cooked orzo pasta then add more vinaigrette about a quarter cup and the cubed or crumbled feta cheese if using Gently toss to combine Use a large spoon to avoid breaking the feta too small

Finish and Taste:

Sample a spoonful and adjust flavor If it needs more tang add extra vinaigrette A squeeze of lemon brings brightness more salt or pepper rounds out flavor Keep a light touch when mixing to protect veggie texture

Garnish and Serve:

Just before serving sprinkle fresh basil or mint over the top for a final aromatic lift This adds summery fragrance and a beautiful finish to the salad

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I love how kalamata olives transform the whole dish bringing a deep briny punch The way my kids sneak extra olives from the salad bowl always makes me smile This is the dish I turn to when I want summer to last just a bit longer

Storage Tips

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge and the flavors mingle better overnight If you are serving for an event keep the basil or mint separate and stir it in right before setting out for peak freshness

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any small-shaped pasta if you do not have orzo and pearl couscous works too Goat cheese or a vegan feta substitute can stand in for traditional feta For extra veggies try chopped spinach or artichoke hearts

Serving Suggestions

Serve this as a main for a light meal or as a hearty side next to grilled chicken fish or lamb It is also delicious tucked into pita bread or spooned over leafy greens Try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little kick

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Cultural Notes

Classic Greek flavors like oregano feta and olives are the soul of Mediterranean cooking Greek salads in Greece are often served without lettuce and piled high with vegetables This version honors that tradition with a pasta-friendly twist

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta works best?

Orzo is ideal for soaking up the dressing and mingling with chopped vegetables, giving a satisfying bite.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, the salad keeps well in the fridge for up to four days; flavors develop even more over time.

→ Is feta cheese essential?

Feta adds creamy, tangy notes but can be omitted or replaced for a dairy-free version.

→ How can I adjust the flavor profile?

Add more lemon, herbs, or a twist of black pepper for extra zest; red pepper flakes bring heat if desired.

→ Can I use other beans besides chickpeas?

Chickpeas offer a classic texture, but cannellini or white beans are tasty alternatives if preferred.

→ Which herbs highlight the flavors?

Oregano is traditional, but parsley, basil, and mint provide a fresh finish just before serving.