This refreshing lemon orzo salad is packed with bright flavors! It’s made with tender orzo pasta, zesty lemon juice, crunchy veggies, and creamy feta cheese—a perfect mix for any meal!
I love how quick it is to whip up this salad! You can serve it warm or cold, which makes it great for picnics too. Plus, everyone loves a little feta magic! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small rice-shaped pasta adds texture to the salad. If you’re gluten-free, use quinoa or a gluten-free pasta instead. I also enjoy using farro for a nuttier flavor.
Cucumber: Fresh and crunchy, cucumber is perfect here. If you’re looking for a twist, try using diced avocado for creaminess, or use bell pepper for added sweetness.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a salty bite. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, consider a shredded tofu or nut-based cheese for a similar flavor.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon brightens the salad. If you don’t have lemons, lime juice works well too. Just remember it’ll change the flavor slightly!
P parsley: Fresh parsley lends a nice herbal touch. If you don’t have it, basil or cilantro can be interesting substitutions for different flavor profiles.
How Can You Get the Orzo Just Right?
Cooking the orzo perfectly is all about timing. You want it al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite when you chew it. Here are some steps to help:
- Bring your water or vegetable broth to a rolling boil before adding the orzo.
- Check the package for cooking time, usually around 8-10 minutes. Start testing a minute or two earlier.
- Once done, drain it well and rinse quickly under cold water to stop the cooking process and chill the pasta for your salad.
This method keeps your orzo from getting mushy and ensures a delightful texture in every bite!
Easy Lemon Orzo Salad With Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For the Dressing:
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. You’ll spend a few minutes cooking the orzo and mixing everything together, making it a quick and delightful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing the water or vegetable broth to a boil in a pot. Add the orzo pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once it’s cooked, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to cool it quickly. This helps stop the cooking process and keeps it nice and firm.
2. Mix the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with the diced cucumber, red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. Give it a good stir to mix everything together evenly.
3. Prepare the Lemon Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This will be the dressing that brings all the flavors together! Make sure it’s well combined.
4. Combine Everything:
Drizzle the lemon dressing over the orzo salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Be careful not to mash the salad—just a gentle toss will do!
5. Add the Feta:
Now it’s time to add the crumbled feta cheese. Sprinkle it over the salad and give it another gentle toss to mix it in without breaking up the cheese too much.
6. Chill and Serve:
Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Cover the salad and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully together. Serve it chilled or at room temperature and garnish with extra parsley if you like!
Enjoy your bright and zesty Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta! It’s perfect as a side dish or a light main.
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo is traditional for this salad, you can substitute it with any small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the orzo may absorb some of the dressing, so feel free to add a splash of olive oil and lemon juice before serving to refresh the flavors!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can definitely make this salad in advance. It’s even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, as this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just wait to add the feta until closer to serving time to keep it fresh and crumbly.
What Can I Use Instead of Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for feta, you can use crumbled goat cheese, which adds a similar creaminess. For a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu mixed with a bit of nutritional yeast for flavor. Just remember to adjust the seasoning if the substitute you choose is saltier or creamier than feta!
