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Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe

Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. This easy-to-make salad features tender orzo pasta tossed with crunchy fresh vegetables, leafy spinach, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese. Ideal for meal prep or gatherings, it can be prepared in just 30 minutes and tastes even better when chilled. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a healthy lunch option, this versatile salad is sure to impress your family and friends.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 8

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces orzo
  • 3 cups baby spinach leaves, gently torn into large pieces
  • 1 1/2 chopped red bell pepper, about one red bell pepper
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced and seeded, about one medium
  • 3/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 5 ounces Castelvetrano green olives, drained and halved
  • 5 ounces Kalamata pitted olives, drained and halved
  • 7 ounces feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup canola oil
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the orzo: Boil water in a large pot, season with salt, and cook orzo for about 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooled orzo with baby spinach, red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, both types of olives, and half of the feta cheese.
  3. Prepare vinaigrette: Whisk together canola oil, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
  4. Dress the salad: Pour vinaigrette over the salad mixture and fold gently to combine. Top with remaining feta cheese.
  5. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to enhance flavors.
  • Author: Juniper
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 510mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: For added protein, consider including grilled chicken or chickpeas. Feel free to customize with your favorite seasonal vegetables or herbs for a personal touch. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.