This Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad is a fresh and zesty dish that’s perfect for warm days. With sweet cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and a light lemon dressing, it’s oh-so-refreshing!
Honestly, I could eat this salad every day! It’s quick to make, and who doesn’t love a dish that tastes like sunshine? Pair it with grilled chicken for a yummy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta shape is great for salads. If you can’t find orzo, use other small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add nice sweetness and pop. You can substitute with regular tomatoes diced small or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor. Just adjust the quantity accordingly!
Cucumber: Crunchy and refreshing, cucumbers are key here. If you’re looking for a twist, consider using bell peppers or even avocados for creaminess.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and mint brighten the dish. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs can work; just use lesser amounts since dried herbs are more potent.
Lemon: Fresh lemon is best for maximum flavor. Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch but may lack the same brightness. You might also use lime for a different zing!
How Do I Make Sure My Orzo is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking orzo to the right texture is essential for a good salad. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This mimics the sea and flavors the pasta.
- Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Check for doneness a minute early.
- Once cooked, drain and rinse the orzo under cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Set the orzo aside while you prepare the other ingredients. This will help maintain its texture.
How to Make Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 small yellow squash or zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to roast the tomatoes. Including chilling time, you should set aside about 45 minutes before you’re ready to enjoy it.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by cooking the orzo pasta based on the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the orzo aside to cool while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
2. Roast the Cherry Tomatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the cherry tomatoes and toss them in a bowl with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re soft and starting to burst. After removing them from the oven, allow them to cool slightly.
3. Make the Lemon Dressing:
While the tomatoes are roasting, prepare your lemon dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This dressing is what brings the salad to life!
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, roasted cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced yellow squash or zucchini, and the chopped parsley. If you’re using mint, add that in as well. This colorful mix will make your salad vibrant and tasty!
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the lemon dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently to ensure it’s all well coated. Be careful not to mash the tomatoes—they should retain their shape.
6. Add Some Spice:
Sprinkle the salad with red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, and taste it! Adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed to suit your preferences.
7. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together. After chilling, you can serve it cold or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or a light meal.
Enjoy your refreshing Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad! It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple dinner.
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great alternative, providing a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. Just cook it according to the package instructions, and the rest of the recipe remains the same!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
This salad is already vegetarian-friendly, but to enhance the protein, consider adding chickpeas or feta cheese for added creaminess and flavor. Just toss them in with the other ingredients!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftover Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the flavors might intensify, give it a gentle stir and a splash of olive oil before serving again.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach. Just remember to keep the sizes consistent for even mixing and eating. Enjoy experimenting!
