Greek Orzo Salad with Feta, Olives & Lemon Dressing

Our Greek orzo pasta salad is wonderfully flavorful and makes a fantastic side or light main. It’s simple to prepare yet feels indulgent—perfect for family dinners, cookouts, or potlucks. This recipe is one of our go-to dishes because it comes together quickly and is always well received.

What is orzo?

Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that’s versatile and quick to cook. Although it resembles grains like rice or barley—indeed, “orzo” translates to “barley” in Italian—it is actually a form of pasta usually made from semolina or a blend of wheat flours. The tiny, uniform shape of orzo makes it ideal for pasta salads because it mixes easily with vegetables, herbs, and dressings and cooks in about 7–9 minutes depending on altitude.

Traditional orzo contains gluten, but you can swap in a gluten-free orzo made from rice, corn, or other gluten-free grains to accommodate dietary needs.

How to make Greek orzo pasta salad

Prepare your ingredients:

1. Cook the orzo according to package directions, drain, and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Dice the cucumbers, red bell pepper, and tomatoes; thinly slice the red onion.
3. Roughly chop fresh parsley and cilantro.
4. Pit the kalamata and green olives if needed.
5. Rinse and drain the baby spinach.

Make the dressing:

1. Combine extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice (from half a lemon), and olive brine or a splash of vinegar in a small bowl or blender.
2. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and dried oregano.
3. Whisk in tahini until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.

Assemble the salad:

1. Place the cooled orzo in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the cucumbers, red bell pepper, tomatoes, red onion, and both types of pitted olives.
3. Fold in the chopped herbs and baby spinach.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Serve immediately as a side, or chill for a few hours to let flavors meld—toss again before serving.

How to store Greek orzo pasta salad

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture and freshness, enjoy it as soon as possible—the spinach and herbs will be at their peak earlier on and may wilt after a couple of days. Freezing is not recommended, as the vegetables and dressing won’t hold up well.

Common Questions about Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

Other Food Dolls Salads you are going to love!

We love salads, so here are a few favorites that pair well with this orzo pasta salad or stand alone as great additions to your menu:

• Cucumber Thai Crunch Salad — a crisp summer salad with fresh vegetables and a honey sesame dressing.
• Green Goddess Salad — a light, refreshing salad inspired by the viral green goddess trend.
• Whipped Feta Chicken Salad — a heartier, low-carb option packed with flavor.
• Egyptian Cucumber and Tomato Salad (Salata Baladi) — a simple, classic side made with just a few fresh ingredients.