Orzo Pasta Salad: Fresh, Zesty, and Perfect for Summer Days

Name: Orzo Pasta Salad: Fresh, Zesty, and Perfect for Summer Days
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1½ cups dry orzo pasta; 1 recipe Greek salad dressing; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; ½ teaspoon oregano; ¼ teaspoon sea salt; 2 Persian cucumbers, halved and sliced; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cooked chickpeas, rinsed; 4 ounces feta cheese, cubed; ⅓ cup thinly sliced red onion; ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives; 1 cup fresh basil and/or mint; Freshly ground black pepper

BY Emily Parker June 30, 2025

Orzo pasta salad with feta and fresh vegetables

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There’s something special about orzo pasta salad. It brings back memories of sunny afternoons in my aunt’s kitchen, chopping tomatoes while she tossed pasta with herbs and olive oil. That’s the charm of this dish—it’s quick, refreshing, and always a hit.

Made with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, feta, olives, and chickpeas, it’s light yet satisfying. Whether you’re meal-prepping, packing a picnic, or hosting friends, this orzo pasta salad checks every box.

Table of Contents

What Makes Orzo Pasta Salad So Good

Orzo Cooks Quickly and Tastes Great Cold

Orzo’s rice-like shape is perfect for pasta salads. It holds its texture well, especially when cooked slightly past al dente and cooled on a baking sheet with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Its small size mixes easily with other ingredients, making every bite flavorful. Just like grinder pasta salad, it’s a no-fuss, always-delicious crowd-pleaser.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

You only need a few pantry staples: cooked orzo, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, red onion, olives, and block feta. Fresh basil or mint adds brightness, while a zesty Greek dressing ties it all together.

Opt for feta in brine—it’s creamier and more flavorful than the pre-crumbled kind. Pair it with other easy dishes like French onion pasta for a laid-back summer spread.

Mediterranean and Greek Twists on Orzo Pasta Salad

Greek Orzo Salad: A Zesty Classic

Greek orzo pasta salad is all about bold, fresh flavor. It’s packed with ingredients you’d expect in a traditional Greek salad—cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onion, and feta. But instead of leafy greens, you’ve got tender orzo that soaks up every drop of the zippy dressing.

The key to a standout Greek version is the dressing. A mix of olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and oregano creates the perfect punch. You can make a batch in advance, letting the flavors develop even more overnight. For extra crunch, try adding diced bell peppers or swap the chickpeas for white beans.

This variation pairs well with grilled mains or a light meal alongside something comforting like salmon pasta when you want both freshness and richness on your table.

Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad: More Herbs, More Veggies

The Mediterranean version of orzo pasta salad goes a step further. It keeps the Greek foundation but welcomes more variety. Think sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or chopped spinach for depth. Toss in fresh parsley, basil, or mint—or a combination—for an herbaceous finish.

Cooked orzo pasta cooling with olive oil

To balance the richness, include a touch of lemon zest or crumbled goat cheese instead of feta. This makes it feel lighter while still holding onto that signature briny flavor.

This colorful version is a smart choice for gatherings where you want to offer a veggie-packed option that’s still filling. It sits beautifully next to dishes like ditalini pasta for a well-rounded menu.

Next up: we’ll dive into the pesto variation and how to build your own orzo pasta salad dressing from scratch.

Orzo Pasta Salad Pesto & Dressing Ideas You’ll Love

Orzo Pasta Salad with Pesto: Herby, Creamy, and Quick

If you’re craving something rich and vibrant, orzo pasta salad with pesto is the way to go. This twist replaces the Greek-style vinaigrette with a creamy, basil-based pesto that clings beautifully to each piece of orzo. You can use a homemade version or your favorite store-bought jar.

The best part? It takes minutes to make. Just toss cooked orzo with pesto while it’s still slightly warm so the flavors meld. Add halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, baby spinach, and toasted pine nuts for texture. If you love fast meals like salmon pasta, you’ll appreciate how quickly this pesto version comes together.

You can also mix in grilled zucchini or leftover roasted vegetables to make it more substantial. It’s perfect for a summer lunch or a fresh take on potluck fare.

The Best Orzo Pasta Salad Dressing Starts with Balance

Whether you’re going for Greek, Mediterranean, or a custom mix, the dressing is what brings it all together. A great orzo pasta salad dressing combines acidity, fat, and flavor. Start with olive oil and red wine vinegar, then add fresh lemon juice, oregano, sea salt, and cracked black pepper. It should be bright enough to cut through the starch but not overpowering.

You can shake it in a jar or whisk it in a bowl—just make sure it’s well emulsified. Let the salad sit for 15–20 minutes after dressing so everything absorbs the flavor.

If you’re making a big batch ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until serving. This keeps your pasta salad from drying out or getting soggy.

Serving, Storing, and Make-Ahead Tips for Orzo Pasta Salad

How to Serve Orzo Pasta Salad for Any Occasion

Orzo pasta salad shines at backyard cookouts, casual potlucks, or even as a quick weekday meal. Because it’s so versatile, you can serve it chilled, room temperature, or slightly warm—whatever suits the moment. It pairs effortlessly with grilled dishes, sandwiches, or heartier mains like ditalini pasta when you’re feeding a crowd.

For lunch, pack it in a container with an ice pack and toss in extra herbs or a squeeze of lemon before eating. It’s also a refreshing side next to warm meals like French onion pasta, offering a bright contrast to richer dishes.

Use a shallow bowl or serving platter to display it at gatherings. That way, all the colorful ingredients—tomatoes, feta, olives, and herbs—stand out beautifully.

How to Store It (And Make It Last)

Orzo pasta salad stores well for up to 3 days in the fridge, sealed tightly. If you’re prepping in advance, keep the fresh herbs out until just before serving to avoid wilting. A small drizzle of olive oil can help refresh the texture if it feels dry after chilling.

Conclusion

Orzo pasta salad is one of those dishes that proves simple ingredients can deliver unforgettable flavor. Whether you stick to the Greek-style version with feta and olives, go bold with a Mediterranean twist, or try the creamy pesto variation, there’s no wrong way to enjoy it. It’s light, versatile, and perfect for every occasion—from sunny lunches to big gatherings.

Just like my childhood summers spent helping in the kitchen, this salad brings together fresh produce, comforting textures, and just the right amount of zing. Keep this recipe on hand—you’ll be making it again and again.

For make-ahead prep, you can cook the orzo, chop the veggies, and mix the dressing the day before. Store each part separately, then assemble within 30 minutes of serving for the freshest result.

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FAQs About Orzo Pasta Salad

What’s the difference between Greek and Mediterranean orzo salad?

Greek orzo salad sticks to classic Greek ingredients like cucumbers, olives, and feta. Mediterranean versions often expand with sun-dried tomatoes, roasted peppers, or spinach for more variety.

Can I use pesto in orzo pasta salad?

Absolutely. Pesto brings a rich, herbaceous flavor that turns this dish into a creamy, satisfying option. Add roasted veggies or mozzarella for extra texture.

How do I make orzo pasta salad dressing?

Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. For creamier versions, mix in pesto or a spoon of Greek yogurt.

Is Italian orzo salad different from Greek?

Yes. Italian orzo salad often includes mozzarella, basil, tomatoes, and sometimes salami (which you can skip), leaning into Italian flavors rather than the briny, sharp tones of Greek ingredients.

Orzo Pasta Salad: Fresh, Zesty, and Perfect for Summer Days