Here you go — a full detailed recipe with description, timing, step-by-step instructions, and a Q&A section for a delicious Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Tomato & Broccoli. Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Tomato & Broccoli
Description
This vibrant Mediterranean orzo salad combines tender pasta with juicy tomatoes, crisp broccoli, fresh herbs, briny olives, and a bright lemon-olive oil dressing. It’s refreshing, wholesome, and perfect for meal prep, picnics, lunch bowls, or a light dinner. The flavors are clean, zesty, and full of Mediterranean goodness
Time Required
Step Tim
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cooking Time 10 minutes
Assembly 5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Ingredients (4 servings)
For the Salad
1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup broccoli florets (small pieces)
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
½ cup cucumber (diced)
¼ cup red onion (finely chopped)
¼ cup Kalamata olives (sliced)
¼ cup feta cheese (crumbled)
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 tbsp fresh basil (optional but recommended)
For the Mediterranean Dressing
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1½ tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp lemon zest
1 clove garlic (grated or minced)
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt & black pepper to taste
How to Make Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add orzo and cook 7–9 minutes until al dente
3. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool quickly
4. Drizzle 1 tsp olive oil to prevent sticking
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
Option A (Blanched — brighter & softer):
1. Boil water and add broccoli florets for 1–2 minutes
2. Transfer immediately to ice water
Option B (Raw — crunchy):
Cut broccoli into very small florets and add directly
Step 3: Make the Dressing
Whisk togethe
Olive oi
Lemon juice + zest
Garlic
Oregano
Salt & peppe
Taste and adjust lemon or salt.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl combine:
Cooked orzo
Cherry tomatoes
Broccoli
Cucumber
Red onion
Olives
Herb
Pour dressing on top and toss gently.
Add feta cheese last and mix lightly to avoid breaking it
Step 5: Chill or Serve
Serve immediately O
Chill 30–60 minutes for deeper flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal
Serve with hummus and pita
Great alongside roasted vegetables
Perfect for lunchbox or picnic meal prep
Storage
Keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator
Store without feta for best texture; add before serving
Add a splash of lemon or olive oil to refresh leftovers
Frequently Asked Question
Q: Can I use another pasta instead of orzo
Yes! Small pasta like ditalini, couscous, mini shells, or farfalle works great
Q: Can I make this salad vegan
Absolutely — just skip the feta or use vegan feta
Q: Can I add protein
Great additions include grilled chicken, chickpeas, tuna, salmon, or boiled eggs
Q: Do I have to blanch the broccoli
No — raw broccoli works well if cut small. Blanching just makes it softer and brighter
Q: Can I prepare it ahead of time
Yes — it’s one of the best make-ahead salads. Dressing actually improves the flavor over