Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad Recipe

This Mediterranean-inspired Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that comes together in just 15 minutes. The combination of creamy feta, tangy sundried tomato pesto, and refreshing cucumber creates a perfect balance that works beautifully as a side dish or light meal. It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s destined to become your new go-to for potlucks, picnics, and busy weeknight dinners!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Lightning Fast: From start to finish, this salad takes just 15 minutes to prepare—perfect for those evenings when cooking feels like too much work.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This salad actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Versatile Companion: Works beautifully alongside grilled chicken, as a potluck contribution, or as a standalone lunch that won’t leave you hungry an hour later.
• No Complicated Techniques: If you can boil water and stir ingredients together, you can master this recipe on your first try!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta creates the perfect base for soaking up all the delicious flavors. Cook it al dente for the best texture—nobody wants mushy pasta!
• Olive Oil: A quality olive oil helps prevent the orzo from sticking together and adds a subtle richness to the dish.
• Sundried Tomato Pesto: The star ingredient that infuses the whole salad with intense umami flavor and beautiful color. You can use store-bought for convenience or homemade if you’re feeling ambitious.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors without making the dish taste salty.
• Feta Cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy element that perfectly complements the sundried tomatoes. Buy a block and crumble it yourself for the best flavor and texture.
• Cucumber: Provides a refreshing crunch and lightness to balance the rich pesto. Seeding it prevents excess moisture from making your salad watery.
• Fresh Tomatoes: Brings brightness, acidity, and a juicy texture that contrasts beautifully with the denser ingredients.

Variations

This versatile salad welcomes creativity—here are some delicious ways to make it your own:

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to transform it into a heartier main dish.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in some baby spinach, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or kalamata olives for additional Mediterranean flair.
• Herb Garden: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or mint bring brightness and dimension—add them just before serving.
• Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or ricotta salata instead of feta for a different flavor profile.
• Grain Alternative: Substitute quinoa, couscous, or farro for the orzo to create a different texture and nutritional profile.

How to Make Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Cook the orzo in well-salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly but do not rinse—the starchy surface helps the dressing cling to the pasta.

Step 2: Dress the Orzo

Transfer the hot orzo to a large mixing bowl. Immediately toss with olive oil to prevent sticking, then add the sundried tomato pesto and salt. Stir until every piece of pasta is evenly coated with the vibrant red sauce.

Step 3: Add the Fresh Ingredients

Allow the orzo mixture to cool for about 5 minutes (no need to chill completely). Gently fold in the crumbled feta, chopped cucumber, and fresh tomatoes until evenly distributed throughout the salad.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving, though it can be enjoyed immediately if you’re short on time.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Pasta Perfection: Cook the orzo just until al dente—it will continue to soften slightly as it sits in the dressing.
• Seed Those Cucumbers: Take the extra minute to scoop out cucumber seeds to prevent excess moisture from making your salad soggy.
• Temperature Matters: Mixing the pesto with warm orzo helps the flavor penetrate the pasta, but let it cool slightly before adding cheese and vegetables to preserve their texture.
• Taste Before Serving: The amount of salt needed varies depending on your sundried tomato pesto and feta. Always taste before serving and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Size Consistency: Try to chop the cucumber and tomatoes into pieces similar in size to the orzo for the perfect bite.

How to Serve

This versatile salad works beautifully in so many settings:

As a Side Dish

Pair with grilled Mediterranean chicken, lamb chops, or salmon for a complete meal that feels like a vacation to Greece.

For Entertaining

Serve in a large, shallow bowl garnished with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of quality olive oil for an impressive presentation at potlucks or dinner parties.

Lunch Option

Pack in containers for meal prep—this salad holds up beautifully for several days and makes lunchtime something to look forward to.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve after a day of mingling!

Make Ahead Tips

This salad is perfect for preparing 1-2 days in advance of a gathering. The orzo will absorb more of the pesto flavor, making it even more delicious.

Refreshing Leftovers

If the salad seems a bit dry after refrigeration, simply drizzle with a little olive oil and give it a gentle toss before serving again.

FAQs

Can I use regular tomato pesto instead of sundried tomato pesto?
Absolutely! While sundried tomato pesto provides a more intense flavor that really makes this salad special, regular basil pesto works beautifully too. You might want to add a few chopped sundried tomatoes to maintain that distinctive flavor element.

My family doesn’t like feta cheese. What can I substitute?
If feta isn’t a favorite, try fresh mozzarella pearls for a milder option, or even shaved parmesan for a different savory note. For a dairy-free version, avocado chunks provide a similar creamy texture that works surprisingly well.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute gluten-free orzo or another small gluten-free pasta shape. Rice-based orzo alternatives work particularly well and maintain the authentic appearance of the dish.

How far in advance can I make this salad?
This salad actually improves with time! You can prepare it up to 2 days ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Sundried Tomato Feta Orzo Salad brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special. It’s one of those rare recipes that’s both incredibly easy and impressively flavorful. Whether you’re rushing to put dinner on the table or planning a special gathering, this Mediterranean-inspired dish delivers every time. The balance of tangy, salty, and fresh flavors will have everyone asking for your secret—which is simply letting quality ingredients shine!

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