Looking for a fresh and flavorful dish to brighten up your summer meals? These 12 Summer Orzo Salad Recipes are perfect for everything from light lunches to easy cold side dishes for a crowd. Whether you’re craving a classic Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe, a Mediterranean-inspired Orzo Salad with Feta, a zesty Italian Orzo Pasta Salad, or a refreshing Vegan Orzo Salad, you’ll find something delicious here!

These healthy pasta salads are loaded with clean, vibrant ingredients — great for clean eating and effortless gatherings. Hosting a party? Try a Salad for a Large Crowd like our colorful Orzo Garbanzo Salad or cool down with a Cold Orzo Pasta Salad that’s perfect for hot days. With plenty of salad dressing recipes and healthy orzo salad ideas, these recipes are quick, refreshing, and sure to be your new summer favorites!

1. Mediterranean Orzo Salad:

Toss orzo with juicy cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, crisp cucumber, and a vibrant lemon-herb vinaigrette. The salty olives and creamy feta perfectly complement the fresh vegetables and tangy dressing. It’s a light yet satisfying salad perfect for a warm afternoon. Read the full recipe

2. Grilled Corn and Avocado Orzo Salad:

Combine the nutty flavor of orzo with the sweetness of grilled corn kernels and the creamy texture of diced avocado. Add some chopped red onion for a bit of bite and dress it all with a lime-cilantro dressing for a refreshing twist. This salad is a fantastic side for any barbecue. Read the full recipe

3. Caprese Orzo Salad:

Capture the classic Caprese flavors in this delightful orzo salad. Mix cooked orzo with fresh mozzarella balls, sweet basil leaves, and ripe cherry tomatoes. Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and acidity. It’s a simple yet elegant salad that sings of summer. Read the full recipe

4. Shrimp and Asparagus Orzo Salad:

Elevate your orzo salad with succulent grilled or sautéed shrimp and tender asparagus spears. A light lemon-dill dressing enhances the fresh seafood and vegetables. This salad is substantial enough for a light lunch or a sophisticated side dish. Read the full recipe

5. Black Bean and Corn Orzo Salad with Chipotle-Lime Dressing:

For a Southwestern flair, combine orzo with black beans, sweet corn, diced bell peppers, and red onion. A smoky and zesty chipotle-lime dressing ties all the flavors together. This salad is packed with flavor and perfect for potlucks. Read the full recipe

6. Peach and Prosciutto Orzo Salad:

Experience a delightful sweet and savory combination with this orzo salad. Toss cooked orzo with slices of ripe peaches, salty prosciutto, baby spinach, and a light honey-mustard vinaigrette. The contrasting textures and flavors make this salad truly unique.

Read the full recipe

7. Chicken Caesar Orzo Salad:

Transform the classic Caesar salad into a heartier meal with the addition of orzo pasta and grilled or shredded chicken. Toss everything with creamy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a familiar flavor combination in a new and satisfying format. Read the full recipe

8. Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Orzo Salad:

Infuse your orzo salad with the intense flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and the subtle earthiness of fresh spinach. Add some toasted pine nuts for crunch and a garlic-herb vinaigrette for a bright finish. This salad is bursting with Mediterranean goodness. Read the full recipe

9. Salmon and Dill Orzo Salad:

Create a sophisticated and flavorful orzo salad with flaky cooked salmon, fresh dill, capers, and a creamy lemon dressing. The richness of the salmon pairs beautifully with the bright dill and tangy capers. This salad is perfect for a light and elegant meal. Read the full recipe

10. Broccoli and Cheddar Orzo Salad:

A kid-friendly and comforting orzo salad featuring tender steamed broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese cubes. A creamy mayonnaise-based dressing brings it all together. This is a simple and satisfying salad that’s great for lunchboxes or a light supper. Read the full recipe

11. Italian Sausage and Bell Pepper Orzo Salad:

Add a savory kick to your orzo salad with crumbled Italian sausage and sautéed bell peppers (red, yellow, and orange). A simple tomato-based dressing with Italian herbs complements the robust flavors of the sausage and peppers. This salad is hearty and flavorful. Read the full recipe

12. Watermelon and Feta Orzo Salad with Mint:

Experience a refreshing and unexpected combination with this orzo salad. Cubes of sweet watermelon, salty feta cheese, and fresh mint leaves are tossed with orzo and a light lime vinaigrette. This salad is incredibly hydrating and perfect for a hot summer day. Read the full recipe