Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

If you’re looking for a salad that’s bursting with bright, tangy, and savory Mediterranean flavors, you’ve come to the right place. This Mediterranean orzo salad with feta and sun-dried tomatoes is a delightful dish that’s perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or as a side at your next gathering.

this Recipe

You’ll love how the chewy orzo pasta pairs beautifully with salty feta and sweet sun-dried tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty lemon herb dressing. It’s a fresh, easy recipe that you can whip up in under 30 minutes, and it keeps well for leftovers, too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and bold Mediterranean flavors in every bite.
• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days.
• Versatile as a main dish or a side salad for any occasion.
• Contains wholesome ingredients that are both fresh and satisfying.
• Vegetarian-friendly and easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.

Ingredients

Gather these simple, fresh ingredients to create your Mediterranean orzo salad:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving

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

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, diced cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
5. Fold in the crumbled feta cheese, stirring carefully to avoid breaking up the chunks too much.
6. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra lemon zest if desired.

Tips for the Best Results

• Rinse the cooked orzo with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from sticking.
• Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor in your dressing.
• Add chopped roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for an extra Mediterranean twist.
• Include toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a crunchy texture contrast.
• If you prefer, substitute fresh tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes for a milder taste.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover Mediterranean orzo salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad tastes even better the day after because the flavors have had time to meld.

Reheating is not necessary; serve chilled or at room temperature. If you want to serve it warm, gently warm only a portion in the microwave for about 30 seconds, but avoid heating the feta as it may melt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This Mediterranean orzo salad actually benefits from resting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. The flavors deepen, making it even more delicious.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat and contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta shaped similarly, such as rice or quinoa pasta.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make excellent additions to boost protein and make this salad more filling.

How long does this salad keep?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, this salad stays fresh for about 3 days. Avoid freezing since the texture of the ingredients may change upon thawing.