Greek Orzo Salad Recipe

Imagine a delightful afternoon spent in a lush green park, the sunlight gently filtering through the trees, casting a serene glow on your cozy picnic setup. Nestled on your rustic wooden table is a bowl of vibrant Greek Orzo Salad, a dish that resonates with the warmth of family gatherings, the joy of creativity, and the delightful moments of seasonal occasions. This salad, with its medley of orzo pasta, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and briny kalamata olives tossed in a refreshing Greek dressing, is both a feast for your eyes and your taste buds. Topped with crumbled feta and fresh oregano, it’s a culinary embrace that brings everyone closer. Today, I, Zynah Maryam, bring you this simple yet beautifully flavorful Greek Orzo Salad Recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 large cucumber, diced
• 2 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. First, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside.
2. While the orzo is cooking, prepare the dressing by whisking together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, kalamata olives, and red onion.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well coated with the dressing.
5. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and fresh oregano on top. Give it one last gentle toss to evenly distribute the feta and oregano.
6. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully before serving.

Helpful Tips

• If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to the dressing mix.
• For an added crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds.

Storage Instructions

Store the Greek Orzo Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If making ahead, it’s best to add the feta cheese and oregano just before serving for optimal freshness.

Ingredient Substitutions

• If you don’t have orzo, small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shell pasta work well.
• If fresh oregano is unavailable, substitute with dried oregano but use only 1 tablespoon.

Pairings

This Greek Orzo Salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Serve it alongside warm pita bread and a chilled glass of lemonade for a complete, refreshing picnic experience.

Here at Zynahz, we believe that every meal can be a celebration of joy, creativity, and familial bonds. I warmly encourage you to bring this Greek Orzo Salad into your kitchen and share the love with your family and friends. Show us your delightful creations by tagging #ZynahzReceipes and let’s spread the joy of cooking together. Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes on Zynahz, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter for inspiring culinary adventures.