Healthy Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe – Fresh Veggies, Feta & Zesty Flavor
When I want a dish that’s light, healthy, and full of flavor, this Mediterranean Orzo Salad hits the spot every time.
It’s packed with fresh veggies, creamy feta cheese, briny olives, and bright herbs, all tossed in a simple lemon-olive oil dressing.
The orzo gives it a satisfying bite, while the Mediterranean ingredients bring bold flavor to every forkful.
Perfect for picnics, potlucks, weekday lunches, or as a refreshing side dish to grilled meats or seafood, this salad is as beautiful as it is delicious. Bonus? It comes together in under 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Orzo Salad
🥗 Fresh and colorful, packed with veggies
🍋 Zesty and bright, thanks to lemon and herbs
🧀 Creamy feta adds richness and tang
⏱️ Quick and easy, great for meal prep
🌿 Naturally vegetarian, full of wholesome ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, halved
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or mint, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Mediterranean Orzo Salad
🍝 Cook orzo in salted water according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside to cool.
🥗 In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, olives, and feta.
🥄 In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
🍋 Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
🌿 Add fresh herbs and toss again. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
🧊 Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving, or enjoy immediately!
Optional Add-Ins and Variations
🫘 Add chickpeas or white beans for extra protein
🥬 Toss in a handful of baby spinach or arugula
🥑 Add avocado for creaminess (right before serving)
🫑 Swap bell pepper for roasted red peppers
🧀 Try goat cheese or mozzarella pearls instead of feta
Tips for the Best Orzo Salad
✔ Rinse orzo after cooking to cool and stop it from sticking
✔ Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor
✔ Let the salad sit for a bit before serving—flavors get even better
✔ Double the dressing if you like it extra saucy
Storage
📦 Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
🍋 Refresh with a splash of olive oil or lemon juice before serving
🥶 Not freezer-friendly, but perfect for weekly meal prep
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that brings big flavor with minimal effort.
It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat—whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, packing it for lunch, or enjoying it as a light dinner.
Fresh, zesty, and satisfying, it’s Mediterranean magic in every bite. 🥗💛🍋
