Why is orzo healthier than pasta?

Technically, orzo *is* pasta—but it’s often used in lighter recipes like Greek Orzo Salad. Because it's paired with fresh vegetables and a lemony vinaigrette instead of heavy sauces, it feels lighter and more balanced. For an extra health boost, go with whole wheat orzo to add fiber and nutrients.

What dressing goes on orzo salad?

This salad calls for a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, and salt. It’s zesty, tangy, and ties everything together without overpowering the fresh ingredients.

What goes in a Greek pasta salad?

Greek Orzo Salad usually includes orzo pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, red bell pepper, feta cheese, and fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Everything gets tossed in a flavorful vinaigrette for that signature Mediterranean bite.

What is the Greek version of orzo?

In Greece, orzo is known as kritharaki . It's used in everything from baked casseroles to cold salads like this one. Greek Orzo Salad celebrates that tradition by keeping things simple, bright, and full of flavor.

Greek Orzo Salad – Easy, Fresh Recipe You’ll Love

Name: Greek Orzo Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 garlic clove, grated; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and black pepper to taste

Description

A quick, colorful, and zesty Greek Orzo Salad with fresh vegetables, feta, and a bold vinaigrette.

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1/4 red onion, finely chopped

1/3 cup Kalamata olives, sliced

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 garlic clove, grated

1 tsp dried oregano

Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Boil orzo in salted water until al dente. Rinse under cold water and drain.

Step 2: Chop all vegetables and herbs.

Step 3: Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Combine orzo, veggies, and feta in a bowl. Add dressing and toss.

Step 5: Chill salad for 30 minutes. Serve cold.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

If it dries out, revive it with a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of lemon juice.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Boiled
Cuisine: Greek