Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Feta and Kalamata Olives
This is a simple, refreshing orzo salad that's perfect for a summer meal. It's made with orzo, cucumber, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, red onion, and fresh parsley. The salad is tossed in a light vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano. The orzo salad is a great make-ahead dish, so it's perfect for busy weeknights.
I first had this orzo salad at a restaurant in Greece. I was immediately hooked on the combination of flavors and textures. The orzo was al dente, the cucumber was crisp, the olives were briny, the feta was creamy, the red onion was sharp, and the parsley was fresh. The vinaigrette was light and tangy, and it brought all the flavors together perfectly. I've been making this orzo salad ever since I got back from Greece. It's one of my favorite summer dishes, and it always reminds me of my trip to that beautiful country.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Feta and Kalamata Olives Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Feta and Kalamata Olives Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Feta and Kalamata Olives Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Feta and Kalamata Olives
Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 1 cucumber, chopped
  • 1/2 cup halved Kalamata olives
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. Cook the orzo according to package directions.
  2. Drain the orzo and rinse with cold water.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the orzo, cucumber, olives, feta, red onion, parsley, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Toss to combine.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Why It Works
  • The combination of orzo, cucumber, olives, feta, red onion, and parsley is a classic for a reason. These ingredients all have different flavors and textures, and they come together to create a salad that is both satisfying and refreshing.
  • The vinaigrette is light and tangy, and it helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients. The olive oil adds richness, the red wine vinegar adds acidity, and the oregano adds a touch of herbaceousness.
  • This salad is a great make-ahead dish. The flavors will only improve as the salad sits, so it's perfect for busy weeknights.