π₯ Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing

π₯£ Ingredients (Serves 3β4)
π For the Salad
1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Β½ cucumber, diced
ΒΌ red onion, finely sliced
Β½ red bell pepper, diced
β cup black or Kalamata olives, sliced
ΒΌ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
π For the Lemon Herb Dressing
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
Β½ tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for richness)
Salt & black pepper to taste
π©βπ³ Instructions
β Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Add orzo and cook for 7β8 minutes until tender.
Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
Drizzle 1 tsp olive oil to prevent sticking.
β Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
Chop tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, olives, and herbs.
Crumble the feta cheese.
β Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, mustard, salt & pepper.
Whisk until smooth and emulsified.
β Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, add orzo, vegetables, olives, and herbs.
Pour the dressing over everything.
Toss gently to combine.
Add feta on top and mix lightly.
β Step 5: Serve
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Add extra lemon or olive oil before serving if desired.
π Health & Nutrition Benefits
| Ingredient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | Heart-healthy fats, anti-inflammatory. |
| Orzo (pasta) | Light and easy to digest; provides good energy. |
| Vegetables | High in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins. |
| Feta cheese | Provides calcium and protein (can reduce for low-calorie version). |
| Lemon & garlic | Natural detox and immunity boost. |
β Healthy Tips
Swap orzo with quinoa for a gluten-free, high-protein version.
Add grilled chicken or salmon for a full meal.
Add chickpeas for plant-based protein.
Meal prep friendly β stays fresh for 2β3 days in the fridge.



