Tomato Feta Orzo Salad (Printable)

Mediterranean-style orzo with cherry tomatoes, feta, herbs, and a zesty dressing for a fresh, flavorful dish.

# Ingredient list:

→ Pasta

01 - 1 1/4 cups orzo

→ Vegetables

02 - 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 1 small red onion, finely diced

→ Dairy

04 - 1 cup crumbled feta cheese

→ Herbs & Greens

05 - 3 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

→ Dressing

07 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
08 - 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
09 - 1 garlic clove, minced
10 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# How-to:

01 - Boil orzo in a large pot of salted water until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
02 - Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a large salad bowl.
03 - Add cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, red onion, crumbled feta, basil, and parsley to the bowl with the dressing.
04 - Gently toss all ingredients until evenly coated with the dressing.
05 - Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
06 - Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 4 hours to allow flavors to meld.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for unexpected guests or lazy weeknight dinners.
  • The flavors actually improve as it sits, so you can prep it hours ahead and let everything meld together beautifully.
  • It's hearty enough to stand on its own but flexible enough to pair with grilled chicken, fish, or just bread and wine.
02 -
  • Don't skip rinsing the orzo—warm pasta will continue cooking and turn mushy if you leave the starch on it.
  • If you're making this ahead, wait to add the basil and parsley until just before serving, or they'll turn dark and lose their fresh brightness.
03 -
  • If your feta is very salty, taste the dressing before you add the final pinch of salt—you might not need any.
  • Make the dressing in the bowl first, then add the warm orzo and toss immediately so the pasta absorbs the flavors while it's still hot.
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