Mediterranean Zucchini Orzo Salad
Mediterranean Zucchini Orzo Salad is light, fresh, and full of texture. The tender orzo provides a hearty base, while roasted zucchini brings warmth and depth. Crumbled feta adds tang, almonds give crunch, and a simple lemon–olive oil dressing ties everything together. It’s the kind of dish that works perfectly as a side for grilled meats or seafood, or as a satisfying vegetarian main. Best of all, it’s easy to make ahead and gets even better as the flavors meld.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
Orzo pasta: 1 ½ cups, cooked according to package instructions
Zucchini: 2 medium, sliced or chopped (lightly roasted or sautéed)
Feta cheese: ½ cup, crumbled
Almonds: ¼ cup, sliced or slivered (lightly toasted, optional)
Fresh herbs: 2–3 tbsp chopped parsley or basil (or a mix)
Olive oil: 3 tbsp (plus 1 tbsp for cooking zucchini)
Lemon juice and/or zest: Juice of 1 lemon + 1 tsp zest
Garlic: 1 clove, minced
Seasonings: Salt and black pepper, to taste (optional pinch of red pepper flakes or lemon pepper)
Instructions
Cook the orzo:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, toss with a drizzle of olive oil, and set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the zucchini:
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add zucchini slices, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–7 minutes until just tender and lightly golden. Alternatively, roast zucchini at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes.
Make the dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Assemble the salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, zucchini, feta, almonds, and fresh herbs. Pour over the dressing and toss gently until everything is coated.
Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
Tips
Toast the nuts: Lightly toasting almonds in a dry pan for a few minutes enhances their crunch and nutty flavor.
Cook orzo al dente: Slightly firm pasta works best in salads since it holds up well when mixed with dressing.
Cool the pasta slightly: Toss with a little olive oil after draining to prevent sticking while it cools.
Dress while warm: Adding the dressing when the orzo is still warm helps it absorb more flavor.
Meal prep friendly: This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld, making it great for lunches or picnics.
Variations
Add protein: Chickpeas, grilled chicken, or shrimp can make it a complete meal.
Different cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or shaved Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Herb swap: Use dill, mint, or oregano instead of (or alongside) parsley and basil.
Extra veggies: Mix in roasted red peppers, cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or spinach.
Nut alternatives: Try pine nuts or walnuts instead of almonds.
Make it vegan: Leave out the feta or replace with a plant-based cheese.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes. It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours in the fridge, as the flavors meld together. Just give it a quick toss before serving.
Q: Should I serve it warm or cold?
A: Both work. It’s delicious warm right after making, but it’s also refreshing served chilled as a pasta salad.
Q: Can I use another pasta shape instead of orzo?
A: Absolutely. Small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even quinoa can be used as alternatives.
Q: How long does it keep?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
(per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~320
Protein: 10g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 3g
Sodium: 350mg
(Values will vary depending on add-ins and portion sizes.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Zucchini Orzo Salad is fresh, flavorful, and versatile. It’s a great way to enjoy zucchini alongside bright lemon, creamy feta, and crunchy almonds. Easy to customize and make ahead, this dish works just as well for a weeknight dinner as it does for a summer gathering. Whether served warm or cold, it’s a vibrant addition to any Mediterranean-inspired menu.