Greek Orzo Pasta Salad
This Greek orzo pasta salad is fresh, crunchy and packed with Mediterranean flavor. Tender orzo, crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, feta and chicken get tossed in a bright honey-lemon dressing. This easy orzo pasta salad is ready in about 25 minutes and keeps beautifully for lunches all week.
Want to make the chicken from scratch? My Greek Orzo Pasta Salad with Air Fryer Greek Yogurt Chicken has the full marinade.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Orzo Pasta Salad
- Fresh and crunchy with tons of veggies.
- Bright honey-lemon dressing.
- Ready in 25 minutes.
- Great for meal prep and potlucks.
Ingredients for Greek Orzo Pasta Salad
The Salad
Orzo, cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, red and green bell pepper, feta, fresh parsley and dill.
The Dressing
Olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, honey, Dijon, salt and pepper.
Swap note: Skip the chicken and add chickpeas or extra veggies for a vegetarian version. Use a gluten-free small pasta for gluten free.
How to Make Greek Orzo Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the orzo
Cook the orzo in salted water until al dente, drain and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Add the herbs
Combine the orzo, parsley and dill in a large bowl.
Step 3: Add the mix-ins
Add the chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell peppers and feta.
Step 4: Make the dressing
Whisk the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, honey, Dijon, salt and pepper.
Step 5: Toss and finish
Pour the dressing over the salad, toss and finish with extra herbs, feta and lemon.
Carly’s Expert Tips
- Cool the orzo slightly so the herbs do not wilt.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Taste and adjust the lemon and salt before serving.
- Make extra dressing to refresh leftovers.
Make It Your Own
- Vegetarian: Use chickpeas instead of chicken.
- Olives: Add kalamata olives.
- Shrimp: Use grilled shrimp.
- Spinach: Add baby spinach.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep: Make this salad up to 3 days ahead. It tastes even better after the flavors meld.
What to Serve With Greek Orzo Pasta Salad
Serve with pita, hummus or Greek Turkey Meatballs with Cucumber Feta Tomato Salad and Greek Rice.
Storing and Reheating
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Refresh with lemon juice and olive oil before serving.
What People Ask About Greek Orzo Pasta Salad
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Ditalini or small shells work.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Swap the chicken for chickpeas.
How long does orzo salad last?
Up to 4 days in the fridge.
Is orzo pasta?
Yes. Orzo is a small rice-shaped pasta.
Greek Orzo Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Cook orzo in salted water until al dente according to package directions. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, parsley, and dill.
- Add chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell peppers, and feta.
- Whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Finish with extra herbs, feta, and a squeeze of lemon.
Nutrition
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables or chickpeas.
- Make sure the orzo is cooled slightly before mixing to avoid wilting the fresh herbs.
- This salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
