Mediterranean Orzo

Bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors, Mediterranean Orzo is a light yet satisfying pasta salad perfect for any occasion. This quick and easy recipe combines al dente orzo pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, tangy kalamata olives, and finely chopped red onion, all tossed in a zesty homemade lemon-garlic dressing. Crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley elevate the dish with creamy and herbaceous notes, making it an irresistible side or standalone meal. Ready in just 25 minutes, this Mediterranean-inspired creation is a refreshing choice for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy a wholesome, flavor-packed dish that brings the Mediterranean to your table! Keywords: Mediterranean Orzo, pasta salad, lemon-garlic dressing, feta cheese, quick and easy.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups orzo pasta
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 pieces garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 0.5 cup kalamata olives, sliced
• 0.25 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 0.5 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, kalamata olives, and red onion.

Step 4

Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Step 5

Fold in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley.

Step 6

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper, if needed.

Step 7

Serve immediately at room temperature or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for a cooler dish.

Step 8

Garnish with extra parsley or feta cheese before serving, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1091.4 grams (1091.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2115

Total Fat 97.80g	125%
Saturated Fat 27.40g	137%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.00g
Cholesterol 100mg	33%
Sodium 4352mg	189%
Total Carbohydrate 263.20g	96%
Dietary Fiber 28.60g	102%
Total Sugars 18.80g
Protein 58.70g	117%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 792mg	61%
Iron 18mg	98%
Potassium 1101mg	23%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.6%

Protein: 10.8%

Carbs: 48.6%