Print

Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad is light, zesty, and packed with fresh Mediterranean flavors. Tender orzo pasta is tossed with crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a bright lemon dressing for the ultimate side dish. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or a refreshing weekday lunch, this salad is simple yet incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

  • For the Salad:
  • 1 ½ cups (285 g) orzo pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • ½ red onion, finely chopped
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
  • For the Lemon Dressing:
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and transfer to a large bowl.
  • Prep the veggies: While the pasta cooks, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and herbs.
  • Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  • Assemble the salad: Add the veggies, feta, and herbs to the orzo. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine.
  • Chill & serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and transfer to a large bowl.
  • Prep the veggies: While the pasta cooks, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and herbs.
  • Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  • Assemble the salad: Add the veggies, feta, and herbs to the orzo. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine.
  • Chill & serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/lemon-orzo-pasta-salad/