Chickpea Orzo Salad: A Refreshing Summer Favorite

Name: Chickpea Orzo Salad: A Refreshing Summer Favorite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, chopped; 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint (optional); 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

April 30, 2025

- By Chaynez

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Every summer, I find myself returning to this Chickpea Orzo Salad a dish my nonna would’ve called “la cucina della semplicità,” or the kitchen of simplicity. It’s a colorful bowl of Mediterranean sunshine, packed with protein-rich chickpeas, tender orzo pasta, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette. Whether you’re headed to a beach picnic or prepping lunch for the week, this salad is a seasonal staple that never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Chickpea Orzo Salad

Easy to prepare: Minimal cooking involved just boil the orzo!
Packed with Mediterranean flavor: Think olive oil, lemon juice, fresh herbs, and juicy veggies.
Perfect for meal prep: It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Naturally vegetarian and easily vegan or gluten-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into this Chickpea Orzo Salad:

Base Ingredients:

1 cup orzo pasta (or sub gluten-free orzo)
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small cucumber, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint (optional for a refreshing twist)

Lemon-Herb Dressing:

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Swaps & Add-Ins

Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free orzo or quinoa.
Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken or salmon.
Go vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan, just skip any optional cheese.
Extra flavor: Crumble in some feta cheese or sprinkle with toasted pine nuts.

Equipment Needed

Medium pot (for orzo)
Colander
Large mixing bowl
Small bowl (for dressing)
Whisk or fork
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups/spoons

Directions for Chickpea Orzo Salad

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Boil a pot of salted water and cook orzo according to package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

While the orzo cooks, chop your cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and dice the red onion. Rinse and drain the chickpeas.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the orzo, chickpeas, veggies, and herbs. Pour over the dressing and toss until well coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For best flavor, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Fridge-friendly: Keeps for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Meal prep tip: Store dressing separately to prevent sogginess if prepping in advance.
Party prep: Make it the night before and let flavors meld overnight.

Serving Suggestions

As a side: Pair with grilled meats or fish.
As a main: Serve with pita bread and hummus for a filling vegetarian meal.
Party platter: Add feta, roasted red peppers, or stuffed grape leaves for a Mediterranean spread.

FAQs about Chickpea Orzo Salad

❓ Is chickpea orzo healthy?

Yes, chickpea orzo salad is healthy. It’s rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and nutrients from chickpeas and vegetables. When dressed with olive oil and herbs, it becomes a balanced, heart-healthy dish.

❓ Can you put chickpeas in orzo salad?

Definitely. Chickpeas are a perfect addition to orzo salad. They add texture, protein, and make the dish more filling and nutritious.

❓ What dressing goes on orzo salad?

A lemon vinaigrette or lemon-dill dressing works best. Olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs bring out the Mediterranean flavors in chickpea orzo salad.

❓ Is orzo salad healthy?

Yes, especially when made with whole-grain orzo and lots of veggies. It’s a light, nutrient-packed meal or side dish when paired with clean ingredients.

Final Thought on Chickpea Orzo Salad

This Chickpea Orzo Salad is more than just a side dish it’s a celebration of Mediterranean simplicity and summer’s finest flavors. With every bite, you get a balance of creamy chickpeas, tangy lemon dressing, and the refreshing crunch of garden vegetables. It’s light, satisfying, and endlessly versatile, perfect for everything from quick lunches to elegant summer spreads.

Whether you’re preparing it for a picnic, a barbecue, or a week of easy lunches, this salad will quickly earn a spot in your seasonal rotation. Feel free to make it your own add a handful of feta, toss in some grilled veggies, or keep it classic and clean. However you serve it, it’s bound to bring a taste of sunshine to your table.

For more delicious recipes, cooking tips, and culinary inspiration, check out Chaynez Recipes, where you’ll find all of our latest recipes and updates in one place. From savory soups to delectable desserts, there’s something for every palate.