Greek Orzo with Tomatoes, Feta, Olives, and Fresh Basil | Fresh & Mediterranean

Introduction

What if you could bring the flavors of the Mediterranean coast straight to your dinner table in under 30 minutes? This Greek Orzo with Tomatoes, Feta, Olives, and Fresh Basil is light, fresh, and bursting with flavor.

Orzo — a rice-shaped pasta — soaks up a tangy dressing and pairs beautifully with juicy tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, creamy feta, and fragrant basil. It’s the perfect balance of savory, fresh, and tangy in every bite. This dish works as a side, a light vegetarian main, or even a picnic-ready pasta salad.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ lemon, juiced
• ¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped

✨ Optional Add-Ins:

• Diced cucumber for crunch
• Spinach or arugula for greens
• Grilled chicken or shrimp for protein

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Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes

Quick, simple, and ideal for busy weeknights or make-ahead lunches.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package directions (usually 8–10 minutes). Drain, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies

While the orzo cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the olives, crumble the feta, and chop the basil.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together remaining olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, tomatoes, olives, onion, and feta. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to coat. Finish with fresh basil.

Step 5: Serve

Enjoy warm, at room temperature, or chilled — this dish is versatile and delicious either way.

💡 Pro Tip: For even more flavor, let the salad sit for 15–20 minutes before serving to allow the orzo to absorb the dressing.

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Nutrition (per serving, approx. 1 cup)

• Calories: 290 kcal
• Protein: 9g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g

Packed with Mediterranean nutrients, this dish offers heart-healthy fats from olive oil and olives, plus protein and calcium from feta.

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Healthier Alternatives

• Use whole-wheat orzo for extra fiber.
• Swap feta with vegan feta for a dairy-free option.
• Reduce olive oil to 1 tbsp for a lighter version.
• Add extra veggies like zucchini or bell peppers to bulk it up.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled fish, chicken, or lamb for a complete Mediterranean meal.
• Pair with pita bread and hummus for a vegetarian spread.
• Pack in a mason jar for a portable picnic or lunchbox option.
• Use as a colorful side dish for potlucks and BBQs.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the orzo: It can get mushy — aim for al dente.
• Skipping olive oil after cooking pasta: Orzo clumps easily; olive oil prevents sticking.
• Adding basil too early: Add fresh basil last to keep it vibrant.
• Over-salting: Feta and olives already add saltiness, so taste before adjusting.

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Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Meal Prep: Keeps well as a cold pasta salad — ideal for lunchboxes.
• Freezer: Not recommended; orzo and fresh basil lose texture after freezing.

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Conclusion

This Greek Orzo with Tomatoes, Feta, Olives, and Fresh Basil is a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s quick, healthy, and full of fresh flavors. Whether as a side, a main, or a meal-prep favorite, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and let me know how you enjoyed it!

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FAQs

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.

Q2: What type of olives are best?
Kalamata olives are traditional, but green olives work too.

Q3: Can I serve it hot?
Absolutely — serve warm as a side dish or let it cool for a refreshing salad.

Q4: Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, but not vegan (unless you use dairy-free feta).

Q5: Can I add protein?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make it a complete meal.