This Orzo Salad Recipe is a quick and creamy side dish that comes together with simple pantry staples. It’s the perfect make-ahead option for busy weeknights, potlucks, or as a delightful side for grilled meats. You’ll love how the tender orzo soaks up the bright, lemony dressing.

I first fell for this style of pasta salad on a sun-drenched trip along the Amalfi Coast, where simple ingredients are treated with reverence. The creamy texture and sharp, salty punch of feta make it a regular in my summer rotation. I often serve it alongside my roasted asparagus for a light lunch or with a more substantial authentic Greek salad for a full Mediterranean feast. It’s the kind of effortless dish that feels both special and comforting.

What You’ll Need for Your Orzo Salad

Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.

Creamy Orzo Salad

Creamy orzo salad recipe with Parmesan and fresh herbs. This easy 40-minute Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for summer gatherings and light lunches.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Lunch, Side Dish

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• medium saucepan
• knife
• cutting board
• measuring spoons
• measuring cups
• ladle
• grater
• mixing bowl

Ingredients

  

Salad Base

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth kept warm

Finishing Touches

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• salt to taste
• freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped

Instructions

 

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
• Add the Arborio rice to the saucepan and stir constantly for about 1 minute to toast the grains, ensuring each grain is coated in butter and becomes slightly translucent at the edges.
• Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring continuously, until the liquid is fully absorbed by the rice.
• Add the warm broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring continuously after each addition. Allow the liquid to be almost fully absorbed before adding the next ladleful. Continue this process for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender but still slightly firm to the bite and the mixture is creamy.
• Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted and the risotto is smooth and creamy. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Add mozzarella or feta for a cheesy twist. Let dough rise in a warm oven (off) for faster proofing.

Keyword easy, orzo, salad, summer

Creative Recipe Variations

• Mediterranean Twist: Add chopped kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Add Protein: Fold in shredded rotisserie chicken or flaked tuna for a heartier meal.
• Lighter Version: Substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lower-fat option.

My Pro Tips for Perfection

• Toast the Orzo: Lightly toasting the orzo in butter before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor.
• Broth Temperature: Always use warm broth to maintain a consistent cooking temperature for a creamier result.
• Continuous Stirring: Stirring constantly while adding the broth is crucial for releasing the starches.
• Finish Off Heat: Always stir in the cheese and cream off the heat to prevent curdling. For another great side dish that utilizes simple techniques, try my roasted Brussels sprouts.

How to Store Your Orzo Salad

• Store: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld.
• Freeze: Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.
• Reheat: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen it up.
• Make-Ahead Tip: This dish is ideal made a day ahead. Simply cool completely before covering and refrigerating.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Delightful Side Dishes

• Greek Feta Salad
• Potato Salad
• Roasted Broccoli
• Roasted Fingerling Potatoes

Why This Orzo Salad Wins Every Time

With its luxurious creamy texture and versatile flavor profile, this orzo salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s the ideal dish to bring to a potluck or to enjoy as a simple, satisfying weeknight side. I hope it becomes a cherished recipe in your home as well.