Refreshing Cold Orzo Salad Recipe That Stay Crisp

A cold orzo salad is a versatile and refreshing dish that harmoniously blends vibrant flavors with a light, satisfying texture. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings, this Mediterranean-inspired salad combines crisp vegetables, creamy feta, and a zesty lemon dressing that brightens every bite. Its appealing presentation and balanced taste make it ideal for picnics, barbecues, or wholesome weekday lunches. Beyond flavor, this salad is practical, easy to prepare, and retains its freshness even after hours in the refrigerator.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups uncooked orzo pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Cold Orzo Salad ?

Begin by cooking the orzo in a pot of salted boiling water until it is tender yet retains a slight bite. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process, ensuring it remains firm and cool for the salad. Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables by halving the cherry tomatoes, dicing the cucumber, finely chopping the red onion, and roughly chopping the parsley.

Once the orzo has cooled, combine it in a large mixing bowl with the vegetables, feta, and sliced olives. Dress the salad with olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to evenly coat the ingredients and allow the flavors to meld. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to maintain crispness and enhance the taste.

Cooking Time

Preparation for this salad is quick, with chopping and assembling taking around 10 minutes. Cooking the orzo requires approximately 10 minutes, and a minimum of 30 minutes chilling ensures optimal flavor and texture. Overall, the salad can be ready in just 50 minutes, making it an efficient yet elegant choice for any occasion.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of cold orzo salad provides approximately 270 calories, 8 grams of protein, 32 grams of carbohydrates, and 12 grams of fat. It contains 2 grams of fiber and 310 milligrams of sodium, making it a balanced option for light, nutrient-rich meals. This combination offers energy without heaviness, suitable for both lunch and side dishes.

Storage and Reheating

Cold orzo salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can remain fresh for up to three days. To restore its texture, lightly toss the salad before serving, redistributing the dressing for consistent flavor. Freezing is not recommended as the pasta and vegetables may lose their crispness upon thawing.

Suggestions and Variations

For a heartier version, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to transform the salad into a complete meal. Substituting feta with mozzarella pearls creates a milder flavor profile, while incorporating fresh spinach or arugula adds extra greens. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds provides additional crunch, and a spoonful of Greek yogurt in the dressing can offer a creamier texture.

Seasonal Relevance

This salad is particularly suited to spring and summer when fresh vegetables are at their peak. Its light and cooling properties make it an excellent choice for outdoor meals, from casual picnics to elegant summer gatherings. The bright flavors and fresh ingredients celebrate seasonal abundance while offering a satisfying, refreshing dish.