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Greek Orzo Salad with Tomatoes, Feta, and Kalamata Olives

Fresh Mediterranean orzo pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and basil, perfect for summer meals.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

Salad Base
  • 1 pound orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup Kalamata olives pitted and halved
  • 8 oz feta cheese crumbled
  • 0.5 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
  • 0.25 cup red onion finely diced
Dressing
  • 0.33 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 cup pine nuts toasted, optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large serving bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Cook orzo pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
  2. While pasta cooks, prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
  3. In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled orzo pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, ensuring even distribution throughout.
  4. Add the halved Kalamata olives and finely diced red onion to the pasta mixture, tossing gently to incorporate.
  5. Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, tossing thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
  6. Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese, being careful not to break it up too much while ensuring even distribution.
  7. Add the chopped fresh basil leaves and toss one final time to distribute the herbs throughout the salad.
  8. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to achieve your preferred flavor balance.
  9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and develop.
  10. Just before serving, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts if using, and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for presentation.

Notes

This salad tastes even better the next day as flavors develop. Can be made up to 3 days ahead. Let come to room temperature before serving and refresh with a squeeze of lemon juice if needed.