Perfect for warm weather get-togethers, this Mediterranean Greek Orzo Salad recipe is made with fresh ingredients, briny feta, and a flavorful lemony vinaigrette!

This salad is one of my favorite summer salads! I love the fresh taste, and flavors. Also, I think it’s apparent I love Mediterranean food; hello Greek wedge salads, Mediterranean hummus dip, and spanakopita bites.

If you love a good summer salad for a potluck or quick lunch, try my Mediterranean Quinoa Salad, Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad or Strawberry Spring Mix Salad next!

I’ve been making this Mediterranean Greek Orzo Salad since 2014 after buying our first house in the summer and hosting a housewarming party to celebrate. It’s always a hit and everyone asks for the recipe before leaving! My sister actually makes this orzo salad more than I do – that’s how much we love it.

ingredients in this greek orzo salad with feta

This vegetarian orzo salad with feta cheese is so simple to make using a mix of fresh Mediterranean-inspired produce and a few pantry staples. The longer this sits, the more flavorful this orzo salad becomes with all of its bright, fresh flavors!

orzo pasta: Any brand will do (If you need a gluten-free orzo, Jovial makes a GF version with cassava flour. There are several out there made with corn flour and/or chickpea flour, so there are absolutely options available to make this orzo salad gluten-free if you need to. (I like Jovial best because it’s simply one ingredient)
artichoke hearts: marinated and chopped for extra flavor, and ease when prepping.
cherry tomatoes: you can also use grape tomatoes.
spinach: fresh spinach. or you can use arugula for this greek orzo salad.
feta cheese: adds a creamy, briny flavor to this dish. You can find cow’s milk or sheep’s milk. I prefer sheep as it’s easier for me to digest but it’s up to you. (If you want a vegan feta: Violife, Follow Your Heart, and Trader Joe’s are the ones I know of, but there are many alternatives out there.)
Kalamata olives: adds a depth of flavor and healthy fat! Or you use green olives in a pinch. Both offer Meditterean flavors and are delicious.

ingredients for lemon vinaigrette

This simple vinaigrette is made with lots of fresh lemon juice and zest and can be made ahead of time. In a pinch, you can use store bought Greek dressing instead.

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 lemon juice and zest of 1 ripe lemon
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 tablespoons dried oregano spice – or Italian seasoning spice
salt and pepper, to taste – start with a pinch of each

Pour in Greek Lemon Vinaigrette and mix to combine the salad and dressing together.

orzo substitutes

If you can’t find orzo pasta, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like casarecce, farfalle (bowtie pasta), couscous pearls, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor might vary slightly with different pasta types, but any of these swaps will do in a pinch.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can (and should) make this Mediterranean Greek Orzo Salad ahead of time! The longer this hangs in the fridge, the more flavorful it will be.

How long will the salad keep in the refrigerator?

Greek Orzo Salad will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving, and you may to add a little extra dressing or olive oil if the salad seems dry after being stored; this is because the orzo will soak some of that greek lemon dressing, but a quick drizzle and stir should take care of it.

This greek orzo salad is perfect for warm weather potlucks, but a great side for a filling dinner. I love serving this as a side to whipped feta turkey burgers or a batch of g yro meatballs – enjoy!