Bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors, Mediterranean Orzo is a light yet satisfying pasta salad perfect for any occasion. This quick and easy recipe combines al dente orzo pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, tangy kalamata olives, and finely chopped red onion, all tossed in a zesty homemade lemon-garlic dressing. Crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley elevate the dish with creamy and herbaceous notes, making it an irresistible side or standalone meal. Ready in just 25 minutes, this Mediterranean-inspired creation is a refreshing choice for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy a wholesome, flavor-packed dish that brings the Mediterranean to your table! Keywords: Mediterranean Orzo, pasta salad, lemon-garlic dressing, feta cheese, quick and easy.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, kalamata olives, and red onion.
Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Fold in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper, if needed.
Serve immediately at room temperature or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for a cooler dish.
Garnish with extra parsley or feta cheese before serving, if desired.
Calories |
2115 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 97.8 g | 125% | |
| Saturated Fat | 27.4 g | 137% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 100 mg | 33% | |
| Sodium | 4352 mg | 189% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 263.2 g | 96% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 28.6 g | 102% | |
| Total Sugars | 18.8 g | ||
| Protein | 58.7 g | 117% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 792 mg | 61% | |
| Iron | 17.7 mg | 98% | |
| Potassium | 1101 mg | 23% | |
*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.