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Fresh Greek Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe Easy Healthy Cucumber Feta Delight

Fresh Greek Orzo Pasta Salad - featured image
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A light, refreshing Greek-inspired orzo pasta salad with crisp cucumber, creamy feta, and a bright lemon-oregano vinaigrette, perfect for summer gatherings or quick lunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (170g) orzo pasta (uncooked)
  • 1 large cucumber, peeled and diced
  • 4 oz (115g) feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup (170g) of orzo and cook according to package instructions—usually about 8 to 10 minutes—until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the orzo in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Let it drain thoroughly while you prep the veggies.
  3. Peel and dice 1 large cucumber into small cubes. Halve 1 cup (150g) of cherry tomatoes. Finely chop 1/4 cup of red onion. Chop 2 tablespoons each of fresh oregano and parsley.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled orzo with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs.
  6. Gently fold in 4 oz (115g) of crumbled feta cheese, then pour the dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine, taking care not to break up the feta too much.
  7. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Before serving, give it a light toss and adjust seasoning with extra salt or lemon juice if needed.

Notes

Soak feta in cold water for 10 minutes before crumbling if it tastes too salty. Avoid overdressing to keep the salad fresh, not oily. Chill for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for best flavor. Use fresh herbs for best taste; if using dried oregano, use half the amount.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek orzo salad, pasta salad, cucumber feta salad, healthy pasta salad, summer salad, easy pasta salad, Mediterranean salad

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/fresh-greek-orzo-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-healthy-cucumber-feta-delight/