This Easy Lemon Orzo Salad is bright and zesty, packed with fluffy orzo, creamy feta, and fresh herbs. It’s a vibrant dish that brings a smile to every bite!
Perfect for picnics or a quick lunch, this salad is super easy to make. I love it chilled on hot days while pretending my kitchen is a sunny cafe! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small rice-shaped pasta is perfect for salads. If you don’t have orzo, try substituting with quinoa or any small pasta like ditalini or couscous for a similar texture.
Cucumber: I love using English cucumbers as they’re less watery and have fewer seeds. If unavailable, regular cucumbers work too; just peel them if you prefer a milder taste.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a lovely tang! You can swap with goat cheese or even a dairy-free feta for a plant-based option if you’re avoiding dairy.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and basil brighten the salad. Feel free to mix with dill or mint depending on your taste—each brings a different fresh vibe!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best for flavor. In a pinch, bottled lemon juice works, but I recommend fresh for that zingy taste!
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo is quite simple, but attention to detail is key. You want it tender yet firm. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with boiling 1 1/4 cups of water or vegetable broth. Salt it lightly to enhance flavor.
- Add orzo and reduce heat to medium-low. Set a timer for 8-10 minutes.
- Check for doneness; it should be al dente—cooked but still a little firm in the center.
- Drain any excess water and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down, which helps in salad preparations.
These simple steps can make a big difference in your salad’s texture! Enjoy making this refreshing dish!
Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta and Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Salad:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 1/4 cups water or vegetable broth (for cooking orzo)
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced and halved
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- For the Dressing:
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator before serving. With a total time of around 45 minutes, you’ll have a refreshing dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing the 1 1/4 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the orzo pasta, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until it’s tender. Remember to stir occasionally! Once it’s done, drain any excess liquid and rinse the orzo under cold water to cool it down quickly. This also helps stop it from cooking further. Set the cooled orzo aside.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo with sliced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion. These colorful veggies will give a lovely crunch and freshness to your salad!
3. Add the Feta and Herbs:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Toss in the crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and fresh basil. The combination of these ingredients will give your salad a bright and appetizing vibe.
4. Prepare the Lemon Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the zest of one lemon, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This zesty dressing is what brings everything together!
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the lemon dressing over the orzo and vegetables in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the refreshing dressing.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste! If you think it needs a little more zing, feel free to add extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.
7. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the ingredients to mix, and the flavors to develop perfectly.
8. Ready to Enjoy!
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge. It can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. For a final touch, garnish with extra herbs or feta cheese if desired. Enjoy your fresh, vibrant Lemon Orzo Salad!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta and Herbs
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo will add more fiber and nutrients to your salad and will have a slightly nuttier flavor. Just follow the same cooking instructions, keeping an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan feta or a firm tofu crumbled as a cheese alternative. You might also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor boost!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the vegetables may lose some crunch, but the flavors will continue to meld, creating a delicious taste!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! This salad is versatile, so feel free to add other fresh veggies like cherry tomatoes, carrots, or even spinach for added color and nutrients. Just remember to chop them small enough for easy mixing!
