Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Feta & Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

There’s something truly delightful about a Mediterranean orzo salad that’s bursting with fresh flavors and colorful ingredients. This version with feta and sun-dried tomatoes is one of my favorites—it’s vibrant, satisfying, and wonderfully easy to make. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or a dish to bring to a potluck, this salad offers the perfect balance of tangy, salty, and savory notes.

this Recipe

You’ll find this Mediterranean orzo salad incredibly versatile, and once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again. The combination of tender orzo pasta with creamy feta and the rich touch of sun-dried tomatoes makes every bite a flavorful delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare with simple stovetop cooking.
• Bright and fresh Mediterranean flavors that excite your taste buds.
• A versatile salad suitable as a main dish or a side.
• Perfect for meal prep or potlucks since it holds well chilled.
• Loaded with wholesome, fresh ingredients for a healthy option.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Mediterranean orzo salad. Each one adds a unique flavor and texture to the dish.

• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 3 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth (for cooking orzo)
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed recommended)
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

How to Make Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Feta & Sun-Dried Tomatoes: A Flavorful Delight!

1. Bring 3 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the orzo pasta and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
2. While the orzo cooks, chop the sun-dried tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Halve the Kalamata olives. Crumble the feta cheese if needed.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with the sun-dried tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, parsley, and crumbled feta.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well blended to create the dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if desired.
6. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Serve cold or at room temperature, garnished with extra parsley or lemon wedges if you like.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for richer flavor and softer texture.
• Rinse the orzo with cold water after cooking to prevent it from sticking and to cool it quickly.
• Adjust the amount of lemon juice depending on how tangy you prefer your salad.
• For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn it into a more substantial meal.
• Make the salad a few hours ahead to enhance the flavors—it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover Mediterranean orzo salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary.

If you prefer it slightly warm, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving, but avoid microwaving to preserve the texture of the fresh ingredients and feta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with small pasta shapes like couscous, quinoa, or even small shells. Keep cooking times in mind to ensure the pasta is tender but not mushy.

How long does this salad keep in the refrigerator?

This Mediterranean orzo salad stays fresh for up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container. Ingredients like feta and sun-dried tomatoes hold up well chilled.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep because the flavors develop over time, making it even more delicious the next day. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to eat.

Can I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.