Print

Fresh Greek Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Feta Perfect for Summer

Greek Orzo Pasta Salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A fresh and vibrant Greek-inspired orzo pasta salad featuring sun-dried tomatoes, creamy feta, cucumber, and fresh herbs, perfect for summer meals and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (about 270g) uncooked orzo pasta
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped finely (preferably packed in oil, drained)
  • ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese (about 100g), Greek-style if possible
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced small
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons (about 45ml) fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water (about 4 cups or 1 liter) to a boil. Add the orzo and cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  3. Finely dice the sun-dried tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Chop the fresh parsley roughly but evenly.
  4. Pour the dressing over the cooled orzo and toss gently to coat evenly. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley and fold together carefully.
  5. Crumble the feta cheese over the salad and fold it in gently, ensuring the pasta is at room temperature or slightly cool to avoid melting the cheese too much.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Rinse orzo after cooking to stop cooking and reduce starchiness, which keeps the salad light. Use good quality feta for best flavor. Whisk dressing until emulsified for better coating. Add toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for extra crunch if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature. The salad tastes better after resting at least 30 minutes or up to 3 days in the fridge.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek orzo pasta salad, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, summer salad, Mediterranean salad, easy pasta salad, healthy pasta salad

Find it online: https://juliamadeit.com/fresh-greek-orzo-pasta-salad-recipe-with-sun-dried-tomatoes-and-feta-perfect-for-summer/