This refreshing lemon orzo salad is perfect for a sunny day! It’s packed with zesty lemon flavor and creamy feta that adds a nice twist to the dish.
Just toss cooked orzo with fresh veggies, a squeeze of lemon, and crumbled feta. It’s quick to make and tastes like a little slice of summer. I love serving it chilled—it’s like a hug in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta is ideal for salads. If you can’t find orzo, consider substituting it with other small pasta shapes like rice-shaped pasta or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds crunch. If you’re in a pinch, diced zucchini or bell peppers work well too. For added flavor, try pickled cucumbers!
Red Bell Pepper: Bell peppers bring a sweet crunch. Any color of bell pepper is fine; yellow or orange can add variation. If you prefer less sweetness, swap it for radishes or jicama.
Feta Cheese: Creamy feta gives a tangy flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, look for vegan feta or substitute with crumbled tofu mixed with a bit of lemon juice.
How Do I Perfectly Cook Orzo and Make This Salad Shine?
Cooking orzo is simple, but a few tips can ensure it’s perfect! Start by bringing a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. This adds flavor to the pasta. Cook it according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. Be sure to drain and rinse it under cold water right away to stop the cooking process.
- After rinsing, let it drain well for a few minutes.
- Mix in the fresh ingredients like cucumber, bell pepper, and parsley while the orzo is still slightly warm to help distribution of flavors.
- Don’t forget to chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving—this really helps the flavors come together!
Use these tips, and your lemon orzo salad will be bright, fresh, and delicious every time!
Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Creamy Feta
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced or chopped
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (for a creamy texture, use creamy feta)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful lemon orzo salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes to chill. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy dish you can whip up for a gathering or a light lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook it according to the package instructions—usually around 8-10 minutes—until it’s al dente. After cooking, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Allow it to drain well.
2. Mix the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with the chopped cucumber, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. This colorful mix will add great texture and flavor!
3. Make the Lemon Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This dressing is what brings the salad to life with zesty flavor. Pour it over the orzo and vegetable mixture.
4. Combine Everything:
Toss the orzo and veggies gently to ensure everything is combined and evenly coated with the dressing. This is where all those fresh flavors blend together!
5. Add the Feta:
Now, carefully fold in the crumbled creamy feta cheese. Make sure to keep some chunks intact for that wonderful creamy texture in the salad.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give the salad a taste! If you like, add a bit more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your personal preference.
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it cold or at room temperature as a delicious side dish or a light main meal.
This easy lemon orzo salad is bright, fresh, and creamy—all ready to brighten up your summer gatherings or lunches!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Creamy Feta
Can I Substitute Orzo with Another Pasta?
Absolutely! If you can’t find orzo, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free version. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times as needed for the different pasta types!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle.
Is There a Vegan Option for This Salad?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative. You can also add avocado for creaminess and extra flavor!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to mix things up! You can add chopped cherry tomatoes, olives, or even roasted red peppers for additional flavor and color. Just be sure to keep a balance of textures for the best results!
