If you are searching for a bright, zesty, and utterly satisfying dish to wow your taste buds, this Italian Orzo Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender orzo pasta with bursts of fresh vegetables, savory salami, briny olives, and a tangy, herbaceous dressing that all come together in perfect harmony. Whether you are making a quick lunch or a stunning side for your next dinner party, this salad is a colorful, flavorful sensation that feels both comforting and vibrant in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Italian Orzo Salad Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients that each bring their own special magic. From the delicate pearls of orzo to the punch of pepperoncini and the creamy parmesan shavings, everything combines to create a brilliant medley of texture, color, and flavor.
- 1 cup uncooked DeLallo orzo: The perfect pasta base that cooks quickly and holds all the dressing beautifully.
- 1 cup little tomatoes (grape, cherry, etc.), halved: These add sweet juiciness and a pop of bright red color.
- 3/4 cup chopped cucumber: For refreshing crunch and cooling contrast.
- 1/2 cup diced salami: Adds a savory, meaty richness that lifts the salad.
- 3 tablespoons chopped red onion: A sharp bite that balances the creamy elements.
- 1/3 cup chopped pepperoncini peppers: Brings a tangy, mildly spicy kick and a touch of acidity.
- 1/2 cup DeLallo Castelvetrano olives, sliced: Their buttery, buttery flavor is a game changer in this salad.
- 1/2 cup shaved parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty depth and a luscious mouthfeel.
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh basil: For that unmistakable fresh herb aroma and a hint of sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: The foundation of the dressing, providing richness and silkiness.
- 2 tablespoons mayo: Adds creaminess that ties the dressing ingredients together smoothly.
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar: Gives a bright, tangy lift to balance flavors perfectly.
- 2 teaspoons DeLallo pesto: Infuses the salad with aromatic herbs and a subtle garlicky warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar: Just a hint to balance acidity and round out the dressing.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Classic herb blend for extra depth and a touch of Mediterranean flair.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for highlighting all those vibrant flavors.
How to Make Italian Orzo Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook the orzo according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and toss it with about a teaspoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Then set it aside in a colander to cool completely. This simple step ensures the pasta remains tender but separate, so it doesn’t turn mushy in your salad.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
While the pasta cools, combine the olive oil, mayo, white vinegar, DeLallo pesto, granulated sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Whisk everything together thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This luscious dressing will coat every bite with savory, tangy, and herbaceous goodness.
Step 3: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients
Now take a moment to chop your little tomatoes in halves, dice the salami, chop the cucumber and pepperoncini peppers, slice the olives, finely chop the red onion, and thinly slice the fresh basil. Prepping all your ingredients ahead of time helps the salad come together quickly once the pasta is ready.
Step 4: Toss the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the cooled orzo with all your prepped veggies, salami, olives, and shaved parmesan cheese. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything until every piece is beautifully coated. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. The layering of fresh, tangy, creamy, and salty elements is what makes this Italian Orzo Salad Recipe so addictive.
Step 5: Chill or Serve Immediately
You can serve the salad right away for a fresh, vibrant crunch, or cover and chill it for a couple of hours to let the flavors deepen and mingle. Both ways are delicious, but allowing it to chill will give you a slightly more cohesive and refreshing salad experience.
How to Serve Italian Orzo Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a final flourish can take your Italian Orzo Salad Recipe to the next level. Sprinkle a little extra shaved parmesan or torn fresh basil leaves on top just before serving for a burst of aroma and eye-catching detail. A drizzle of good quality olive oil can also add a subtle richness.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, seared fish, or even alongside your favorite garlic bread. It’s also a star at any picnic or potluck because it holds up well and offers a complex blend of flavors that complement a variety of dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salad in hollowed-out tomatoes or mini bell peppers for individual, colorful portions. Alternatively, layering this Italian Orzo Salad Recipe in a large glass bowl offers a beautiful visual of all the vibrant ingredients that will make your guests eager to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh and delicious for up to three days. Give it a gentle toss before serving again, as some dressing may settle at the bottom.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad because the fresh vegetables and creamy dressing may lose their texture and become watery upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days refrigerated.
Reheating
This Italian Orzo Salad Recipe is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary. If you prefer it slightly warmed, gently bring it to room temperature and give it a quick toss to refresh the flavors.
FAQs
Can I make this Italian Orzo Salad Recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply substitute the mayo with a plant-based alternative, skip the parmesan or use a vegan cheese, and make sure your pesto is dairy-free. The salad will remain full of flavor and texture.
What is the best way to cook orzo for this salad?
Cook orzo in plenty of boiling salted water until just tender, then drain and toss with a little olive oil to keep the grains from sticking together. Let it cool completely before mixing it into your salad.
Can I use black olives instead of Castelvetrano olives?
Yes, black olives are a fine substitute if you can’t find Castelvetrano olives. Castelvetrano olives have a milder, buttery flavor, but black olives will add their own briny richness, which works well here.
Is this salad good for meal prep lunches?
This salad holds up very well in the fridge and can be a perfect make-ahead lunch. Just keep it chilled, and consider adding fresh basil or parmesan just before eating to keep it lively.
Can I add other vegetables or proteins to this salad?
Definitely! This Italian Orzo Salad Recipe is versatile. You can toss in roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, grilled chicken, or even shrimp to customize it to your liking.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Orzo Salad Recipe is one of those delightful dishes that’s easy to prepare yet impressively flavorful and satisfying. Every forkful offers a perfect balance of fresh, savory, tangy, and creamy that makes it a standout on any table. I highly encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own—it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your recipe repertoire.
