Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe

One Year Later, I’m Still Making Orzo Salad Recipe with Feta Every Week

My orzo recipes such as Lemon Orzo Salad or Spinach Orzo Salad with Artichokes have captured the attention of so many of you, with hundreds of thousands of views and positive ratings. So, I’ve crafted a new salad recipe that’s nutritious, full of energy, and great for meal prep. 

If you’ve got a busy work life, you might find it difficult to enjoy a healthy lunch. That’s where my orzo salad comes to the rescue. It’s inspired by the so popular Jennifer Aniston Salad, which I discovered last year and I’ve been making my version ever since! It’s a great salad to prepare on Sunday night for the week to come.

And to put some pep in your step, I’ve added some special energy-boosting ingredients. They’ll keep you full throughout the afternoon. No more afternoon slump – this hearty salad recipe is here to keep you going strong.

Orzo Feta Salad Ingredients

Check the recipe card below for more information about ingredients and quantities.

• Orzo pasta: This small, rice-shaped pasta is packed with fast-acting energy.
• Feta cheese: Don’t buy the pre-crumbled kind. It’s much better straight from the block. 
• Chickpeas: These nutty, creamy morsels are rich in protein and fiber. 
• Sliced almonds: Full of healthy fats for long-lasting energy. 
• English cucumber: A crisp, refreshing crunch to balance the other ingredients. 
• Red onion and Green onion: Chopped finely, they bring a mild, sweet flavor. 
• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley and fresh mint bring a vibrant, herby freshness to the mix.

Orzo Feta Salad Dressing

• Fresh lemon juice: Adds a bright, acidic touch that brings out the flavors of the orzo salad.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Its fruity, peppery flavor is the perfect base for this orzo salad dressing.
• Honey: A natural sweetener that helps balance the savory elements of the salad. 

Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe Tips

After making so many versions of this salad, here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned:

• Don’t overcook: Cook the orzo just right by following the instructions on the package. Aim for al dente – your pasta should still have a little bite. This way, it won’t go soggy when mixed with the other ingredients. 
• Cool the orzo: Don’t throw the hot orzo straight in with the other ingredients. It needs to cool first. Simply rinse under cold water and drain thoroughly.
• Add some meat: If you’re not vegetarian, you can add meat to pack in more protein. Grilled salmon or grilled chicken tenders work beautifully.
• Meal-prep variety: If you’re meal-prepping, try adding a different dressing or protein each day: salmon with Greek salad dressing on Tuesday, chicken and red wine vinaigrette on Wednesday – why not?

Storing Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta

To keep your orzo salad as fresh as possible, keep it in the fridge in an airtight container. It should last for 3-4 days. 

If you’re meal prepping, here’s a good tip: Whip up four lunch portions of orzo in separate containers. Each morning, toss in the veggies and dressing. This way, everything will stay nice and fresh. You could even use a new dressing each day to change things up.