# Delicious and Refreshing Recipe for Cold Orzo Pasta Salad: Perfect for Summer Gatherings

As the warm weather approaches, nothing quite hits the spot like a refreshing dish that’s easy to prepare and delightful to eat. This recipe for cold orzo p……

As the warm weather approaches, nothing quite hits the spot like a refreshing dish that’s easy to prepare and delightful to eat. This recipe for cold orzo pasta salad is the ultimate solution for summer picnics, barbecues, or simply a light meal at home. Packed with vibrant flavors and colorful ingredients, this salad is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying.

## Ingredients You'll Need

To create this mouthwatering recipe for cold orzo pasta salad, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 cup of orzo pasta

- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved

- 1 cucumber, diced

- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you prefer)

- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped

- 1 cup of feta cheese, crumbled

- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped

- 1/4 cup of olives (black or green), pitted and sliced

- 1/4 cup of olive oil

- 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: 1 teaspoon of dried oregano or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor kick

## Instructions

### Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is crucial to ensure that your pasta remains firm and doesn’t become mushy in the salad.

### Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the orzo is cooling, take the time to prepare your vegetables. Dice the cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion, and halve the cherry tomatoes. The more colorful your vegetables are, the more visually appealing your recipe for cold orzo pasta salad will be!

### Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, feta cheese, olives, and parsley. Toss gently to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

### Step 4: Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, and optional dried oregano. Pour the dressing over the orzo salad and toss again to coat all the ingredients thoroughly. The dressing not only adds flavor but also helps to bring the salad together.

### Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve your cold orzo pasta salad in a large bowl or individual servings, garnished with extra parsley or feta if desired.

## Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe for cold orzo pasta salad is not only easy to make but also highly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, proteins (like grilled chicken or shrimp), or even nuts for added crunch. It’s a perfect dish for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge for several days.

Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply looking for a quick lunch, this salad is sure to impress. Its combination of fresh ingredients and zesty dressing makes it a go-to recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the compliments that come your way when you serve this stunning cold orzo pasta salad at your next event!