Name: Bright & Zesty Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Orzo (opt for gluten-free if needed); 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives (pitted and chopped); 1/4 cup Red Onion (thinly sliced); 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (packed in oil); 2 cups Spinach (thinly sliced); 1/4 cup Fresh Basil (minced); 1/4 cup Fresh Mint (minced); 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground); 1/2 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (high-quality); 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice; 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest; 1 cup Feta Cheese (crumbled, added when orzo is cool)

As I sat under the warm sun, savoring the gentle Mediterranean breeze, the vibrant colors of summer vegetables beckoned me to create something fresh and delightful. That’s when the idea for this irresistible Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun Dried Tomatoes sparked to life. With its combination of tangy feta and the luscious sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, this salad provides a lightness that traditional pasta dishes often lack. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option, perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply meal prepping for the week. You can even substitute with gluten-free orzo to cater to various tastes! Are you ready to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen?

Why is This Orzo Salad a Must-Try?

Vibrant Flavors: This Orzo Pasta Salad is a tapestry of color and taste, with tangy feta and sweet sun-dried tomatoes creating a delightful blend that excites the palate.

Make-Ahead Magic: Perfect for busy schedules, prepare this salad in advance, letting the flavors meld for a richer taste!

Versatile Base: Switch it up by using different greens or proteins; try adding chickpeas for a protein boost or replace feta with goat cheese for a new flavor twist.

Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Ideal for potlucks or gatherings, everyone will be asking for the recipe! Pair it with some grilled chicken or lamb for a complete meal, just like you would with a refreshing Cajun Salmon Pasta or a light Crab Salad Refreshing.

Healthy Choice: Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious and satisfying option that aligns with Mediterranean dietary principles.

Orzo Pasta Salad Ingredients

• This Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun Dried Tomatoes is packed with vibrant flavors!

For the Salad

Orzo – A delightful base that absorbs all the amazing flavors; opt for gluten-free if needed.
Kalamata Olives – Adds briny depth and a burst of flavor; pitted and chopped for convenience.
Red Onion – Offers a crunchy bite, balancing the salad’s flavors; soak in cold water if too sharp.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Delivers a sweet, concentrated tomato flavor; use those packed in oil for richness.
Spinach – Freshness and color; slice thin to mix easily throughout the salad.
Fresh Basil & Mint – Bright herbs that elevate the dish; adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences.
Black Pepper – Offers a hint of spice; freshly ground enhances the salad’s flavors.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – A rich dressing base; choose high-quality for a more flavorful salad.
Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest – Brings brightness and acidity to balance the rich ingredients.
Feta Cheese – Creamy and tangy; add it when the pasta is cool for the best texture.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun Dried Tomatoes

Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Bring 2 quarts of water to a gentle boil in a large pot, adding a generous pinch of salt. Pour in the orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep an eye on the pasta to achieve that perfect chewy texture.

Step 2: Drain and Cool
Once the orzo is al dente, drain it in a colander, shaking off excess water. Rinse the cooked orzo under cold running water for about 30 seconds to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This step is essential for achieving the ideal texture in your Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun Dried Tomatoes.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with chopped kalamata olives, thinly sliced red onion, and sun-dried tomatoes. Add the fresh spinach, minced basil, and mint, stirring gently to blend all ingredients. This colorful medley will create a vibrant foundation for your salad, enhancing the flavors of every bite.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper. This zesty dressing will bring the entire Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun Dried Tomatoes together, enhancing each ingredient’s natural flavors.

Step 5: Toss and Incorporate
Drizzle the dressing over the orzo mixture and gently toss everything together. Be careful to mix without breaking up the feta too much, allowing the creamy cheese to distribute evenly throughout the salad. The goal is a harmonious balance of flavors and textures in each spoonful.

Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container, letting it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors of your Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun Dried Tomatoes to meld beautifully, creating a refreshing dish perfect for summer days or gatherings.

How to Store and Freeze Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun Dried Tomatoes

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier for subsequent meals.

Freezer: This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month. If freezing, leave out the feta cheese until ready to serve for optimal texture and flavor.

Reheating: If chilled, let the salad sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and then refresh with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice to revive its vibrant flavors.

Make-Ahead Option: Perfect for meal prepping! Prepare your Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun Dried Tomatoes a day in advance to save time and enhance flavors for your gatherings.

What to Serve with Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Creating a vibrant meal experience goes beyond just the salad; it’s about curating a feast that delights all the senses.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, charred chicken adds protein and pairs well with the salad’s fresh flavors. Perfect for outdoor gatherings!
Garlic Herb Pita Bread: Soft, pillowy pita drizzled with olive oil enhances the Mediterranean theme and is ideal for scooping up the delicious salad.
Roasted Vegetables: A caramelized medley of seasonal veggies complements the crispness of the salad while adding a comforting earthiness to the meal.
Classic Tzatziki Sauce: This cooling yogurt dip contrasts beautifully with the warmth of grilled dishes, making for a refreshing palate cleanser.
Fizzy Lemonade: The bright, tart flavors of lemonade offer a zesty contrast to the richness of feta and the savory notes in the orzo salad.
Baklava: For dessert, this sweet, flaky pastry filled with nuts is a delightful way to end a Mediterranean-inspired meal, providing both texture and sweetness.

Expert Tips for Orzo Pasta Salad

Cook Al Dente: Avoid mushy pasta by cooking orzo until just al dente. This ensures a delightful, chewy texture in your Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun Dried Tomatoes.
Rinse Properly: After draining, rinse the cooked orzo under cold water to halt the cooking process and prevent clumping. This step is crucial for maintaining the right texture.
Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to blend beautifully. It’s worth the wait for richer taste!
Quality Ingredients Matter: Choose high-quality extra-virgin olive oil and fresh herbs to boost flavors significantly. A little extra care here can elevate your salad straight to gourmet status.
Adjust Seasoning Before Serving: Taste and adjust lemon juice and olive oil just before serving to restore freshness and ensure every bite is zesty and scrumptious.

Make Ahead Options

These Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun Dried Tomatoes are fantastic for busy weeknights! You can prepare the orzo and chop the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator and combine the chopped veggies (kalamata olives, red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, basil, and mint) in another container. When you’re ready to serve, just mix the orzo with the vegetables, add the dressing ingredients, and gently toss in the crumbled feta. To maintain that fresh flavor, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving, keeping your salad just as delicious as if you had made it fresh!

Orzo Pasta Salad Variations & Substitutions

Embrace your creativity and customize this Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun Dried Tomatoes to suit your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo for a grain-free version, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful salad.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pine nuts for a crunchy texture and earthy taste that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Creamy Twist: Substitute the feta with creamy goat cheese for a different flavor profile that adds a tangy richness.
Protein Boost: Mix in chickpeas or white beans to enhance the protein content, making this salad even more filling and nutritious.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in grilled zucchini or bell peppers to introduce a smoky depth and extra dimension to your dish.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery twist that livens up the flavors of this Mediterranean classic.
Herb Infusion: Replace basil and mint with fresh dill or parsley for a fresh, herbaceous note that further brightens the overall flavor.
Zesty Citrus: Swap lemon juice for lime juice, which adds a unique tartness and pairs nicely with the other ingredients.

Feel free to experiment with these suggestions to make this salad uniquely yours! And if you’re looking for more ways to enjoy vibrant flavors, consider trying out my delicious Quinoa Crunch Salad or dive into a hearty Sloppy Joe Pasta for a change of pace. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun Dried Tomatoes Recipe FAQs

What kind of orzo should I use?
You can use traditional orzo for this recipe, but if you’re looking for gluten-free options, there are excellent rice-based or whole grain alternatives available. When selecting orzo, ensure it’s fresh—look for a firm texture and a pale color without any dark spots.

How should I store the Orzo Pasta Salad?
Store your Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Sun Dried Tomatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To keep it fresh, I recommend adding a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of lemon juice before serving leftovers, which will revive the flavors beautifully.

Can this salad be frozen?
Absolutely! While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. To do so, prepare the salad without adding the feta cheese. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and when ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Add the feta just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

What if my salad tastes too acidic?
If you find your salad too acidic, it’s an easy fix! Simply drizzle a touch more olive oil into the mix to mellow out the flavors. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity or increase the feta cheese slightly for added creaminess. Tasting as you go is key to crafting your perfect salad!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be mindful of?
Yes, if you or your guests have dietary restrictions, be sure to choose gluten-free orzo if needed. Additionally, check the feta cheese packaging for any allergens based on individual dietary needs. Always be cautious as feta is made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, which may not suit those with certain dairy allergies.

How can I enhance the flavors of my salad?
For a flavor boost, try marinating your sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil and herbs for a few hours before adding them to the salad. Additionally, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the ingredients to meld and develop a deeper flavor that is simply irresistible!