This classic Mediterranean pasta salad gets a Greek twist with feta, olives, capers, and Greek-style salad dressing (no mayo!). Easy, make ahead recipe.
Course
Salad
Category
Mediterranean
Prep Time15minutes
Cook Time15minutes
Total Time30minutes
Servings4
Calories575kcal
AutorElle
Ingredients
For the salad:
1 1/2cupsdry orzo pasta(250 g)
2small zucchini,diced (250 g)
Drizzle of olive oil
Sea salat and freshly ground pepper,to taste
1pointed bell pepper or sweet bell pepper, diced
350gcherry tomatoes,halved or quartered
1small red onion,finely diced
50gKalamata olives,seeded and sliced
1tablespooncapers,drained and rinsed, chopped coarsely
In a pot of salted boiling water, cook orzo according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water; drain again.
Meanwhile in a non-stick skillet heat a small drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini, season with salt and pepper and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a large salad bowl. NOTE: I cook the zucchini just ever so slightly, and remove it from the heat before it starts to really soften.
Using a small bowl, make the dressing by whisking together the red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dijon mustard, garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until combined. While whisking, slowly add oil until fully combined.
Add the orzo to the salad bowl with the zucchini, along with the red pepper, tomatoes, onion, olives, capers, and parsley. Pour over the dressing and toss until well combined. Add the basil and crumbled feta cheese and gently toss again to incorporate.
Taste and adjust seasonings, if needed. Garnish with additional basil leaves and serve. Enjoy!
Notes
If preferred, zucchini can be replaced with thin-skinned cucumber (seeded and diced).
If making ahead, add the fresh basil just before serving.
The salad will keep well in a sealed container for 3-4 days in the fridge. Feel free to revive flavours a little by adding a squeeze of lemon juice.
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