Healthy Mediterranean Pasta Salad You’ll Crave All Week Long

This Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a refreshing, flavor-packed dish that balances taste, nutrition, and convenience in every bite.

The combination of orzo pasta, chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta creates a satisfying meal that’s rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats from olive oil.

Chickpeas contribute to sustained energy and gut health thanks to their fiber content, while the olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Fresh dill and lemon juice add brightness and depth, making the dish both light and vibrant.

What makes this recipe especially appealing is its versatility—it can be prepared ahead of time, served warm or chilled, and works perfectly as a main dish or side.

With minimal prep, easy-to-find ingredients, and a nutrient-dense profile, it’s an ideal option for weekday lunches, family dinners, or meal-prep sessions that keep you fueled and satisfied throughout the week.

Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results

OXO Good Grips 11-Inch Balloon Whisk

Essential for emulsifying the lemon-mustard dressing, ensuring a smooth, well-blended consistency. A versatile whisk that’s perfect for salad dressings, sauces, and baking.

All-Clad Stainless Steel 4-Quart Saucepan

Perfect for cooking orzo evenly without sticking. A durable, everyday pan that’s ideal for pasta, grains, soups, and sauces.

Cuisinart 7-Inch Chef’s Knife

Makes chopping cucumbers, onions, and dill effortless and precise. A high-quality chef’s knife speeds up prep time and is a cornerstone of every well-equipped kitchen.

Pyrex 4-Quart Glass Mixing Bowl

Ideal for tossing orzo with dressing and combining all salad ingredients. Its large size makes it great for mixing salads, marinating meats, or preparing doughs.

OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Colander

Allows quick, efficient draining of orzo and chickpeas. A sturdy colander is a kitchen staple for washing produce and straining pasta with ease.

Jessica T. Brown

Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

This Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a quick, wholesome dish featuring tender orzo tossed with crisp vegetables, protein-rich chickpeas, briny olives, and creamy feta, all coated in a zesty lemon-dill dressing. It’s a fiber-rich, protein-packed, and heart-healthy option that’s simple to prepare, meal-prep friendly, and perfect for light lunches, picnics, or as a flavorful side dish for dinner
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 5
Course: Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Greek-inspired, Mediterranean

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • ¼ cup red onion finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill finely chopped
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
For the Salad
  • 8 ounces orzo pasta
  • 3 Persian cucumbers sliced into thin half-moon pieces
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 15.5-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • ½ cup kalamata olives pitted and halved
  • 1 cup feta cheese crumbled (about 4 ounces)
  • Extra fresh dill finely chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 11-Inch Balloon Whisk
  • 1 4-Quart Saucepan
  • 1 7-Inch Chef’s Knife
  • 1 4-Quart Glass Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Stainless Steel Colander

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Tangy Lemon-Dill Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and Dijon mustard until smooth. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create a silky, emulsified base. Stir in the finely chopped red onion and fresh dill. Season with a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the salad.
  2. Cook the Orzo to Perfection: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions until tender but still slightly firm (al dente). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain well and allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the dressing.
  3. Combine Pasta with Dressing: Transfer the warm orzo into the bowl with the prepared dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly, allowing the pasta to soak up the zesty flavors. This step infuses the salad with a bright, tangy base.
  4. Add Fresh Vegetables and Chickpeas: Fold in the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, and olives. Mix well to distribute the ingredients evenly, creating a colorful, hearty blend packed with Mediterranean flavors.
  5. Finish with Creamy Feta and Herbs: Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese, being careful not to break it down too much. Sprinkle with extra chopped dill just before serving for a burst of freshness and aroma.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Tip: The dressing can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Give it a quick whisk before using.
  • Serving Temperature: This salad tastes fantastic slightly warm but is equally delicious served chilled, making it perfect for picnics or packed lunches.
  • Ingredient Swap: Substitute whole wheat orzo or gluten-free pasta for a higher-fiber or gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor.
  • Extra Brightness: Add a squeeze of lemon over the salad just before serving for an extra pop of tangy freshness

    Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Flavor

    Achieving the best results in this Mediterranean Orzo Salad comes down to a few key techniques that make a world of difference.

    First, always season your pasta water generously—this is your only chance to infuse the orzo with flavor from the inside out.

    When draining the orzo, leave it slightly warm before mixing with the dressing.

    Warm pasta absorbs the lemon-dill vinaigrette more effectively, locking in the tangy, herby flavor.

    Use fresh dill whenever possible, as dried dill won’t provide the same vibrant, aromatic punch.

    Finally, choose high-quality olive oil and feta cheese—these ingredients carry most of the flavor, and premium options elevate the entire dish from simple to restaurant-worthy.

    Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion

    This salad is a versatile dish that works beautifully as a light main course, a hearty side, or even part of a mezze platter.

    Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb for a protein-rich, Mediterranean-inspired dinner.

    For a vegetarian-friendly spread, serve alongside hummus, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread.

    It’s also an excellent choice for picnics and potlucks because it holds up well at room temperature and remains flavorful even after a few hours.

    Add a handful of arugula or spinach just before serving for a fresh, leafy twist that enhances both color and nutrition.

    Storage Tips for Freshness and Flavor

    This salad stores well, making it a meal-prep favorite for busy weeks.

    Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

    If you know you’ll be storing it, consider reserving some of the dressing and adding it just before serving to prevent the pasta from absorbing all the liquid.

    For the best texture, store feta cheese separately and fold it in when ready to eat.

    Avoid freezing, as the fresh vegetables and pasta don’t thaw well and may lose their crispness and flavor.

    Frequently Asked Questions Answered

    1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
    Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance, but for the freshest texture, keep the dressing and feta separate until just before serving.

    2. What’s the best substitute for orzo?
    If orzo isn’t available, small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even quinoa work beautifully. These alternatives maintain the same hearty, grain-like base and soak up the dressing just as well.

    3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
    Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or swap it for a plant-based feta alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly, making it an easy plant-based option.

    4. How can I make the dressing creamier?
    For a richer, creamier dressing, whisk in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or tahini. This adds a subtle tang and thickness while still keeping the dish light and fresh.

    5. What protein can I add for a fuller meal?
    While the chickpeas provide plant-based protein, you can easily boost it by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted salmon on top. This transforms the salad into a satisfying, well-rounded entrée.

    This recipe has been adapted and simplified from the original version by delish. We’ve refined the steps for a smoother cooking experience and added helpful notes, nutrition insights, and essential kitchen tools to make it even easier for home cooks.

    Jessica T. Brown

    Jessica T. Brown is the founder of KitchenHush.com, a platform born out of her deep love for cooking and the quiet joy found in the kitchen. From a young age, Jessica discovered that the kitchen wasn't just a place to prepare meals—it was a space for connection, creativity, and comfort. Inspired by those early memories, she created Kitchen Hush to share that experience with home cooks everywhere.

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