Feta and Orzo Pasta Salad

This pasta salad is perfect for a picnic or barbecue because it can be made and kept in the fridge for up to a day in advance! Fresh parsley, garlic, and lemon give this dish a delicious flavor that can be served with a variety of main dish options. I’ve also enjoyed this as a quick lunch option since the chickpeas provide lots of protein and fiber to keep me full all afternoon!

What is Orzo?

Although it might look like a grain, orzo is actually a small pasta shape. It’s hard to find whole-wheat or gluten-free orzo pasta, but if you need a substitute, try Banza’s chickpea “rice”. The rice shape is actually pretty similar to orzo and it’s gluten-free!

Tips for Perfect Orzo Pasta Salad

• You can make this dish up to 2 days in advance. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Be sure to finely dice the red onion. Raw onion can have a strong bite, so small pieces are key! For a more mild flavor, try shallots instead.
• I highly recommend buying a whole block of feta and crumbling it yourself. Crumbled feta has anti-caking agents that make it less creamy.

Substitution Ideas

• If you’re gluten-free, try using Banza’s chickpea rice. It’s actually really similar to orzo pasta but it’s made with chickpeas so it’s gluten-free.
• If you want to make this recipe vegan, skip the feta and add a handful of salted, sliced almonds. That will add a salty flavor to replace the cheese.
• To make this a main dish, feel free to add your favorite protein or serve it in a whole grain pita!

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Looking for more orzo recipes? Try this easy Parmesan Orzo Pasta recipe!

What’s your favorite kind of pasta salad?