Costco Mediterranean Orzo Salad: Why Everyone’s Obsessed with This Summer Favorite

Costco Mediterranean Orzo Salad might just be the side dish we didn’t know we needed—until that one warm afternoon when my daughter begged me to grab “the colorful pasta thing” from the deli section. One bite later, and I completely understood the hype. Fresh, zesty, and just the right amount of hearty, this salad has quietly become a cult favorite among Costco fans.

But what exactly makes it so irresistible? Is it the tender orzo pasta? The bright mix of Mediterranean flavors? Or maybe the fact that it’s ready to serve and perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and busy weeknight dinners?

🌿 Looking for more quick and colorful Mediterranean recipes? Follow us on Pinterest for fresh meal ideas and crowd-pleasing sides!

In this post, we’ll explore why this salad has earned its spot in so many fridges (and hearts), what’s really inside it, and how you can even recreate it at home—because let’s be honest, it disappears fast. Whether you’re already a fan or just curious, you’re in for a flavorful ride.

Costco Mediterranean Orzo Salad: Essential Ingredients You Need to Make It at Home

If you’re hoping to recreate the beloved Costco Mediterranean Orzo Salad in your own kitchen, understanding each ingredient—and how to choose the best version of it—is the key to getting that signature taste and texture. Below is a breakdown of what goes into the salad, along with insider tips to help you build a dish that’s just as fresh, flavorful, and satisfying as the original.

For a refreshing twist, check out our Mediterranean Cucumber Salad—a crisp, cool complement to orzo-based dishes.

Orzo Pasta

This small, rice-shaped pasta forms the heart of the dish. It’s soft yet slightly chewy, giving the salad a satisfying bite. For best results, use high-quality orzo—preferably bronze-cut if you can find it—as it holds sauces and dressings better. Cook the orzo in salted water until just al dente, then rinse briefly in cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.

Fresh Spinach

Spinach brings freshness and color to the salad. Use baby spinach leaves, which are tender and have a milder flavor. Wash and dry thoroughly before chopping roughly. Avoid frozen spinach, as it becomes soggy and dilutes the texture.

Red Bell Peppers

Red bell peppers add crunch and natural sweetness. Choose firm, glossy peppers and dice them finely for even distribution. Roasting them lightly can deepen their flavor if you want a richer taste.

Kalamata Olives

These dark, briny olives are essential for the Mediterranean profile. Opt for pitted Kalamata olives and slice them thinly to ensure a balanced salty note in every bite. If you prefer a less salty option, soak them in water for 10 minutes before using.

Feta Cheese

Feta adds creaminess and a salty tang. Choose block feta stored in brine rather than pre-crumbled varieties, as it’s fresher and more flavorful. Crumble it by hand just before mixing it in to preserve texture and moisture.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes offer deep, concentrated flavor and chewy texture. Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best results, and slice them thinly. If using dry-packed, rehydrate them in warm water or olive oil before adding.

Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans)

Chickpeas make the salad more filling and add a nutty, creamy element. Use canned chickpeas for convenience, but rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove excess sodium and improve taste. You can also roast them for a slightly crunchy texture.

Lemon and Olive Oil Dressing

The dressing ties all the ingredients together with brightness and richness. Mix freshly squeezed lemon juice with extra virgin olive oil in a 2:1 ratio. Add a pinch of salt, a dash of garlic powder, and a touch of dried oregano to mimic Costco’s flavor.

Fresh Herbs

Parsley is most commonly used in the Costco version, but you can add chopped basil or dill for variation. Always use fresh herbs and add them just before serving to keep their flavor and color intact.

This ingredient guide is designed not only to match the flavor profile of Costco’s original Mediterranean Orzo Salad, but to improve on it by giving you flexibility and control. By selecting high-quality ingredients and preparing them thoughtfully, you can create a version that tastes even better than store-bought—fresh, nourishing, and tailored to your preferences.

How to Make Costco Mediterranean Orzo Salad at Home

Making the Costco Mediterranean Orzo Salad at home is easier than you might think, and the results are incredibly rewarding. This homemade version is not only fresher, but also customizable to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Here’s exactly how to do it from start to finish.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you begin, make sure you have the following on hand:

• 1½ cups dry orzo pasta
• 2 cups baby spinach, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, thinly sliced
• ¾ cup cooked chickpeas (or canned, rinsed and drained)
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: pinch of dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

Tip: Don’t overcook the pasta—it should be tender but not mushy.

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the orzo and cook until al dente, about 7–8 minutes.
3. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it quickly.
4. Let it drain well; excess water will dilute the dressing.

Step 3: Prep the Vegetables and Add-ins

While the orzo cooks and cools:

• Dice the red bell pepper into small, even cubes.
• Roughly chop the spinach and parsley.
• Slice the olives and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Rinse and drain the chickpeas thoroughly.
• Crumble the feta by hand or with a fork.

Optional Tip: If you want a deeper flavor, sauté the bell peppers for 2–3 minutes in a teaspoon of olive oil before adding them to the mix.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together:

• Fresh lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano (if using)

Taste and adjust seasoning. If it’s too tangy, add a few drops of honey to balance it out.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled orzo.
2. Add in all the chopped vegetables, chickpeas, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs.
3. Pour the dressing over the mixture.
4. Toss gently to combine, being careful not to break up the feta too much.

Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to blend beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

You can serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect as a side dish, a light lunch, or even a base for grilled chicken or fish.

Pro Tip: This salad tastes even better the next day. If you’re prepping ahead, just give it a fresh squeeze of lemon before serving to revive the flavors.

✅ For more healthy Mediterranean meal ideas, explore our Crunch Salad variation.

Substitutions and Variations for Costco Mediterranean Orzo Salad

One of the best parts about recreating the Costco Mediterranean Orzo Salad at home is how versatile it is. Whether you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, personal preferences, or simply using what you already have in your pantry, there are many ways to modify the recipe without compromising on flavor or texture.

For a Gluten-Free Version

Swap the orzo with gluten-free orzo (available in specialty stores) or use a small gluten-free pasta shape like quinoa pasta or rice-based fusilli. Be sure to cook according to package instructions and rinse well to avoid stickiness.

For a Vegan Option

Replace the feta cheese with a vegan feta alternative made from tofu or cashew. These products are now widely available and offer a similar tangy-salty profile. You can also skip the cheese altogether and add avocado for creaminess.

If You Don’t Have Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Roasted cherry tomatoes can offer a similar sweet and slightly smoky note. Simply roast halved cherry tomatoes at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until slightly shriveled.

No Chickpeas?

White beans, such as cannellini or navy beans, can easily stand in. They offer a similar creamy texture and mild taste that blends well with the other ingredients.

Want to Add Protein?

Grilled chicken, tuna, or even shrimp pair beautifully with the existing flavors. Toss them in after mixing the salad for a more substantial meal.

Herb Variations

If parsley isn’t your favorite, try fresh basil, dill, or mint. Each herb gives the salad a unique twist, so feel free to experiment based on the season or your preferences.

Dressing Alternatives

Instead of a lemon-olive oil base, try a Greek yogurt and dill dressing for a creamier finish, or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.

These swaps allow you to adapt the salad to whatever ingredients you have on hand, while still staying true to the bright, Mediterranean essence of the original. Flexibility is the key to making this dish work year-round, no matter your needs or preferences.

Costco Mediterranean Orzo Salad: Frequently Asked Questions

Costco Mediterranean Orzo Salad: Storage and Preservation Tips

Whether you’ve made a big batch at home or brought some home from your last Costco trip, proper storage is key to keeping your Costco Mediterranean Orzo Salad fresh, flavorful, and safe to eat. Here’s exactly how to store it — and what to avoid.

How to Store It in the Refrigerator

Transfer the salad to an airtight glass or plastic container as soon as possible. Keep it refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C). It’s best eaten within 3 to 5 days, but for peak freshness, consume it within the first 48 hours.

Pro Tip: If you’re making it ahead of time, wait to add the feta cheese and fresh herbs until just before serving. This keeps the cheese from getting soggy and helps preserve the brightness of the herbs.

Can You Freeze Mediterranean Orzo Salad?

Freezing is not recommended. The texture of orzo pasta tends to become mushy after thawing, and ingredients like spinach, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes lose their integrity. If you’re looking to meal-prep, you’re better off making the components ahead and assembling just before serving.

How to Freshen It Up After Storage

If the salad seems a little dry after sitting in the fridge, stir in a splash of olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving. This instantly revives the flavors and improves the texture.

What to Avoid

• Don’t leave it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temp, especially in dishes containing cheese.
• Avoid over-mixing after storing. Toss gently to preserve the shape of the pasta and keep ingredients like feta and spinach intact.

Bring the Costco Mediterranean Orzo Salad Home

There’s a reason Costco’s Mediterranean Orzo Salad has become such a beloved deli staple—it’s bright, filling, and incredibly versatile. But making it at home gives you the power to make it even better: fresher ingredients, less sodium, and unlimited customization.

From weekday lunches to potluck sides, this salad delivers flavor, flexibility, and crowd-pleasing appeal. Plus, it’s an ideal recipe for meal prep or spontaneous Mediterranean cravings.

🥄 If you enjoyed this post, explore our full guide on the Costco Mediterranean Salad here, or try your hand at our Mediterranean Cucumber Salad for a fresh take!

Costco Mediterranean Orzo Salad: Why Everyone’s Obsessed with This Summer Favorite

Kathleen ron

Fresh, vibrant, and easy to recreate at home, this Costco Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a flavorful crowd-pleaser packed with veggies, herbs, and tangy lemon dressing. Perfect for potlucks, meal prep, or light lunches.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 28 minutes mins

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 6 people

Calories 330 kcal

Ingredients

  

• – 1½ cups dry orzo pasta
• – 2 cups baby spinach chopped
• – 1 red bell pepper diced
• – ½ cup Kalamata olives pitted and sliced
• – ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes thinly sliced
• – ¾ cup cooked chickpeas or canned, rinsed and drained
• – ½ cup feta cheese crumbled
• – 3 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
• – Juice of 1 large lemon about 3 tablespoons
• – ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• – ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• – Salt and black pepper to taste
• – Optional: pinch of dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Instructions

 

**Cook the Orzo**

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Let it drain well.

**Prep the Ingredients**

• Dice the bell pepper, chop the spinach and parsley, slice the olives and sun-dried tomatoes, rinse and drain the chickpeas, and crumble the feta.

**Make the Dressing**

• Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and oregano (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning.

**Assemble the Salad**

• In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, vegetables, chickpeas, and feta. Pour dressing over the top and toss gently.

**Let Rest and Serve**

• Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. Serve chilled

Notes

Notes:
– For extra protein, add grilled chicken, tuna, or shrimp.
– Add dressing just before serving if prepping ahead.
– To revive leftovers, add a splash of olive oil and lemon juice.

Nutrition (approximate, per serving):
Calories: 330
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 420mg

Keyword Costco Mediterranean Orzo Salad