Name: The Best Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 ounces orzo pasta cooked according to package instructions; 1 English cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 small red onion, chopped (about 2/3 cup); 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, optional, chopped; 1/3 cup red wine vinegar; 1 lemon, juiced; 1 teaspoon honey; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon pepper; 2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

If you’re looking for a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish to elevate your next picnic, potluck, or weeknight dinner, you won’t want to miss The Best Orzo Pasta Salad. It’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors—fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and tangy feta all tossed in a zippy homemade dressing. Not only is it visually stunning, but it’s also ridiculously easy to whip up, keeping you out of the kitchen and in on the fun!

The Best Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The joy of The Best Orzo Pasta Salad lies in its colorful simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of texture and flavor, from the juicy cherry tomatoes to the creamy feta. Gather these essentials, and watch a few basic items transform into something truly irresistible.

Orzo pasta: The delicate, rice-shaped pasta gives this salad its signature tender bite and soaks up all the delicious dressing.
English cucumber: Diced for crunch and a cool freshness that balances the salad’s tangier notes.
Crumbled feta cheese: Adds a creamy, salty kick that instantly transports every bite to sun-drenched Greece—best added just before serving for peak flavor.
Cherry tomatoes: Halved for bursts of juicy sweetness and a pop of vibrant color throughout the dish.
Red onion: Finely chopped to bring a gentle sharpness and vibrant purple hue for extra pizzazz.
Fresh basil leaves: Chopped for a sweet, herbal fragrance that takes the salad to another level.
Fresh parsley (optional): Added for a sprinkle of green goodness and an extra herbal lift—totally up to your taste!
Red wine vinegar: This essential dressing ingredient provides just enough tang to balance the veggies and cheese.
Fresh lemon juice: Brings a sunny brightness to the dressing that wakes up every ingredient.
Honey: Just a dab to mellow out the acidity, keeping the flavors in perfect harmony.
Salt and pepper: A little goes a long way—these simple seasonings tie all the flavors together.
Extra-virgin olive oil: The secret to a rich, glossy, and totally irresistible dressing for The Best Orzo Pasta Salad.

How to Make The Best Orzo Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Start by boiling the orzo pasta according to the instructions on the package. Make sure to salt the water generously for the best flavor. Once it’s perfectly al dente, drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking and keep those lovely tender grains from sticking together. Let it cool completely—this keeps the salad fresh and the veggies crisp.

Step 2: Chop the Fresh Ingredients

While the orzo cools, prep your vegetables and herbs. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the English cucumber, chop the red onion finely, and tear or chiffonade the basil and (if using) parsley. Freshness is key here for that delightfully crisp bite in every forkful of The Best Orzo Pasta Salad.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly stream in the olive oil, whisking as you go, until the dressing emulsifies and looks silky smooth. This quick homemade dressing is what sets The Best Orzo Pasta Salad apart from the rest!

Step 4: Toss and Combine

Mix the orzo, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, basil, and parsley together in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over top and toss everything so each piece is lightly coated. If you’re prepping ahead, hold off on the feta cheese until just before serving so it stays nice and crumbly.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover your salad and refrigerate until you’re ready to dish up. The chill helps the flavors meld and makes this the ultimate refreshing side or main course. Right before serving, sprinkle in the feta for an irresistible creamy finish. Give it one last gentle toss, and you’re ready for rave reviews!

How to Serve The Best Orzo Pasta Salad

Garnishes

For a beautiful finish, scatter a handful of extra basil or parsley leaves over the top just before serving. A grind of fresh black pepper or a sprinkle of lemon zest also adds a burst of flavor and makes your salad look absolutely stunning on the table.

Side Dishes

The Best Orzo Pasta Salad pairs like a dream with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or skewered shrimp. It also complements veggie burgers and is a welcome addition to any Mediterranean-inspired meal. Even on its own, it shines as a light lunch or dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your orzo salad in a large, colorful bowl to show off its vibrant hues. Or get playful and portion it into individual mason jars for cute, portable servings at a picnic or barbecue. For extra flair, line a platter with crisp lettuce leaves and mound the salad on top—it’s every bit as delicious as it looks!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Best Orzo Pasta Salad holds up well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store any leftovers in an airtight container, and give it a gentle stir before serving again. If possible, keep the feta separate and add it fresh for the best texture.

Freezing

While freezing isn’t recommended, as the fresh vegetables and orzo can become watery and mushy upon thawing, you can prep the dressing ahead and freeze that alone. For best results, always use fresh ingredients when making the full salad.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If it’s been in the fridge and seems a little firm, just let it sit out for 10–15 minutes and toss again for perfect texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! Small pastas like ditalini, couscous, or even mini shells work well in place of orzo, though orzo gives the classic texture and look that makes The Best Orzo Pasta Salad truly special.

How can I make The Best Orzo Pasta Salad vegan?

Simple swap: Skip the feta or use a plant-based alternative. The rest of the ingredients are already naturally vegan, so you’ll still have a bright, fresh, and totally satisfying salad.

What’s the best way to keep the salad from getting soggy?

If you’re making ahead, store the salad and dressing separately if possible, and hold off on adding the feta and delicate herbs until just before serving. This way, everything tastes fresh and lively when you dish it up!

Can I add protein to make it a main dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas are fantastic protein additions that turn The Best Orzo Pasta Salad into a filling, standalone meal.

What if I don’t have red wine vinegar?

No worries—swap in white wine vinegar or even apple cider vinegar for a slightly different but equally tasty tang in your dressing.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re prepping for a summer party or just want to shake up your weeknight dinner routine, give The Best Orzo Pasta Salad a try. It’s fresh, vibrant, and endlessly adaptable—once you taste it, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again!

The Best Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe