What you will find are healthy Mediterranean flavours in this Light and Refreshing Orzo Pasta Salad. With tender orzo pasta, fresh veggies, feta, and an easy lemon dressing, it’s the ultimate dish for summer BBQs, picnics, or meal prep. Pair it with some protein for a full meal or serve it as a side!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Lemon Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
- Fill a pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions (8-10 minutes).
- Drain and rinse by the cold water to preventing cooking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt and pepper and whisk to combine.
- Reserve while preparing the salad.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Step 3 In a big bowl, combine cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese and parsley.
- Drizzle the lemon dressing on top and toss gently to combine.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
- For maximum flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
- Great as a side dish or top with grilled chicken, shrimp or chickpeas for protein.
Tips & Variations
- Make It Creamy: For a creamy texture, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the dressing.
- Herb Swap: Swap in fresh basil or dill in place of the parsley for a different flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free orzo, or substitute with quinoa.
- Proteins: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chick peas for a complete meal.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Meal Prep: This salad stores really well and is ideal for lunches!
Final Thoughts
This Orzo Pasta Salad is easy to make, bursting with vibrant flavor and perfect for any occasion. Be it as a light meal or white-light side, it’s bound to be a hit. Give it a try today and tell us how you customize it!
Want a Greek-style version or a protein-packed one? 😊