Bright, flavorful, and irresistibly satisfying, this Chickpea Orzo Salad is a Mediterranean-inspired dish thatโs perfect for quick lunches, potlucks, or light dinners. Featuring tender orzo pasta, protein-packed chickpeas, and a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables including cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red bell pepper, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious. Tossed in a zesty lemon-garlic dressing and dotted with briny kalamata olives and creamy crumbled feta, every bite bursts with savory and tangy goodness. Ready in just 25 minutes, this versatile salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it an ideal make-ahead option. Whether youโre searching for a healthy vegetarian recipe, a refreshing pasta salad, or an easy meal-prep idea, this Chickpea Orzo Salad delivers in both flavor and convenience.
Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and kalamata olives.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley to the salad. Gently mix to combine.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours to let the flavors meld together. Stir well before serving.
Calories |
2298 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 104.8 g | 134% | |
| Saturated Fat | 28.3 g | 142% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 100 mg | 33% | |
| Sodium | 5622 mg | 244% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 279.1 g | 101% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 47.9 g | 171% | |
| Total Sugars | 35.2 g | ||
| Protein | 73.6 g | 147% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 929 mg | 71% | |
| Iron | 23.0 mg | 128% | |
| Potassium | 2099 mg | 45% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.