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Refreshing Summer Orzo Pasta Salad - Easy Cold Orzo Salad Recipes
Jessica

Refreshing Summer Orzo Pasta Salad

This Refreshing Summer Orzo Pasta Salad combines crisp vegetables, creamy feta, and bright lemon dressing for the perfect Easy Orzo Pasta Salad. Ideal for summer picnics and BBQs.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
chilling time 1 hour
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces orzo pasta cooked al dente
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup English cucumber diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 15 ounces chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint chopped
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl for dressing
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. While the pasta cooks, prepare all your vegetables.
  2. Drain the cooked orzo in a colander and immediately rinse under cold running water for 30 seconds. Shake well to remove excess water, then transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  3. Whisk together the dressing in a small bowl: olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, pepper, and dried oregano until emulsified.
  4. Add vegetables to the orzo: cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, chickpeas, and olives. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently to coat.
  5. Fold in the feta cheese and fresh herbs last to keep them from breaking down. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
  6. Give the salad a good stir before serving and add a squeeze of fresh lemon if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Cook orzo in well-salted water for best flavor penetration
  • Don't skip the cold water rinse - it prevents sticky, clumpy pasta
  • Add fresh herbs right before serving if making ahead to keep them vibrant
  • This salad tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together
  • Store in airtight container for up to 5 days in refrigerator
  • Add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice before serving if salad seems dry