A Fresh and Easy Greek Orzo Salad (With a Veggie-Packed Twist!)
If you're looking for a quick, fresh, and flavor-packed salad that’s perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or just a simple lunch at home — you’re going to love this Greek Orzo Salad with a twist.
Instead of the usual heavy pasta salads, this version lightens things up with lots of chopped veggies — including a whole head of cauliflower — while still delivering that craveable Greek flavor. It’s refreshing, satisfying, and super easy to throw together!
Why You’ll Love This Salad:
✅ Quick to prep (especially if you use pre-chopped veggies or cook your orzo ahead of time)
✅ Packed with fiber and crunch from cauliflower, cucumbers, and bell peppers
✅ Simple, zippy dressing made with lemon juice and a shortcut from Primal Kitchen
✅ Totally customizable — great with feta, olives, or grilled chicken if you want to bulk it up
🥗 Ingredients You’ll Need:
Here’s what goes into the base recipe:
1 cup cooked orzo – Follow the package instructions and let it cool before adding.
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 head of cauliflower, finely chopped (I like using a knife for more texture, but a food processor works too!)
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
1 cup shredded cooked chicken
Juice of 1 lemon – for that bright, tangy flavor
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup Primal Kitchen Greek Dressing – I love this clean ingredient shortcut, but use your favorite if you have one
Salt and pepper to taste
🥄 How to Make It:
Cook the orzo according to the package instructions, then drain and let cool.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped veggies – bell pepper, cauliflower, cucumber, chicken and green onions.
Add the cooled orzo to the bowl and toss everything together.
In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, Greek dressing, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well to coat everything evenly.
Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving – this helps all the flavors meld together beautifully!
🌿 Optional Add-Ins:
Make it your own! Here are a few fun ways to switch things up:
Crumbled feta cheese
Sliced Kalamata olives or medjool dates
Fresh chopped parsley or dill
Add grilled chicken for extra protein
Serve with a scoop of hummus and naan bread
👩🍳 Make-Ahead Tip:
This salad holds up well in the fridge for 2–3 days, so it’s perfect for meal prep. I love making a big batch and scooping some out for lunch — it’s like a little gift to future me.
🧺 Great For:
Weekday lunches (hello, moms deserve a good lunch too!)
Easy dinners when you don’t want to cook
A veggie-packed side dish for summer cookouts
Bringing to a potluck or picnic
Loaded with veggies and Mediterranean flavor — this salad is light, bright, and satisfying.
