Cold Orzo Salad with Cucumbers & Feta

This Cold Orzo Salad with Cucumbers & Feta is a refreshing, light, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for warm weather meals, potlucks, or as a quick lunch option. With tender orzo pasta, crisp cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, and a vibrant lemony dressing, this salad is both simple to make and satisfyingly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This orzo salad is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, make-ahead dish that’s packed with Mediterranean flavors. It’s light yet filling, and its versatility makes it ideal for serving as a side or a main. The freshness of cucumber and lemon balances beautifully with the creamy, salty feta, creating a harmonious flavor profile that pleases a crowd.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Orzo pasta

• English cucumber

• Red onion

• Feta cheese

• Fresh dill

• Fresh parsley

• Lemon juice

• Olive oil

• Garlic

• Salt

• Black pepper

directions

1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and let it cool.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, diced cucumber, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, chopped dill, and parsley.

3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a more filling meal.

• Change the cheese: Try goat cheese or mozzarella pearls in place of feta.

• Mix in more veggies: Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or olives add color and flavor.

• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a little heat.

• Try a different herb: Mint or basil can be used alongside or instead of dill and parsley.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended, as it is meant to be enjoyed chilled.

FAQs

What is orzo?

Orzo is a type of pasta that is shaped like large grains of rice. It cooks quickly and is commonly used in salads, soups, and side dishes.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is ideal for making ahead. It tastes even better after the flavors have had time to blend in the refrigerator.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.

Can I use regular cucumber instead of English cucumber?

Yes, regular cucumbers work fine. If they have thick skins or large seeds, consider peeling and deseeding them for the best texture.

What type of feta should I use?

Block feta in brine tends to have the best flavor and texture. You can crumble it yourself for a fresher taste.

How long does orzo take to cook?

Orzo typically cooks in about 8–10 minutes, but it’s best to follow the instructions on the package for perfect texture.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

What if I don’t like dill?

You can omit the dill or substitute it with another herb like basil or mint.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cucumbers and orzo may become mushy when thawed.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Orzo is made from wheat, so it is not gluten-free. To make the salad gluten-free, use a gluten-free orzo or small pasta substitute.

Conclusion

Cold Orzo Salad with Cucumbers & Feta is a bright, refreshing dish that brings together Mediterranean flavors in a simple, satisfying way. Whether you’re preparing it for a picnic, a quick lunch, or as a side dish for dinner, it’s sure to be a hit. Customizable, easy to make, and full of fresh ingredients, it’s a staple you’ll come back to again and again.