Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad (Fresh & Flavorful)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad is a light and refreshing dish that combines the bright, zesty flavor of lemon with tender orzo pasta and fresh vegetables. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a side dish at a BBQ, or a picnic in the park. With its vibrant citrus notes and crisp ingredients, this salad is both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• orzo pasta
• olive oil
• fresh lemon juice
• lemon zest
• cherry tomatoes
• cucumber
• red onion
• feta cheese
• fresh parsley
• salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo with chopped cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, tossing to combine.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
• Toss in some olives for a Mediterranean touch.
• Substitute quinoa or couscous for orzo for a different texture.
• For extra crunch, add toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds.

Storage/Reheating

Store the Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad is best served chilled, but no reheating is necessary.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a few hours ahead or even the night before. Just store it in the fridge.

Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta like couscous or even farro.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Orzo pasta is made from wheat, so this dish is not gluten-free. You can substitute with a gluten-free pasta option.

Can I add protein to the salad?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would pair nicely with this salad for extra protein.

Conclusion

Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tangy lemon dressing and fresh ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both healthy and delicious. Whether as a side dish or a light main, this salad is sure to brighten up any meal.

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