Summer Orzo Salad

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This vibrant orzo salad is a summer sensation—light yet filling, packed with fresh veggies, herbs, and zesty lemon‑garlic dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or easy weeknight sides!

🛒 Ingredients

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 cup cucumber, diced

  • ½ cup red bell pepper, diced

  • ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped

  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

  • ¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced (optional)

  • 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • 2 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped

Dressing:

  • 3 Tbsp olive oil

  • 2 Tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

🔪 Instructions

  1. Cook the orzo in a large bowl of boiling salted water until al dente (~8–10 minutes). Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool—this stops cooking and keeps it fluffy.

  2. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and salt & pepper until emulsified.

  3. In a large bowl, combine cooled orzo with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, feta, olives, parsley, and basil.

  4. Pour on the dressing and toss gently—best to refrigerate at least 30 minutes so flavors marry .

  5. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving—pasta salads soak up salt and acid over time.

💬 Why You’ll Love It

  • Quick & easy: Ready in ~25–30 minutes.

  • Fresh & customizable: Swap herbs, add olives, or omit them for simplicity.

  • Make‑ahead friendly: Holds up well in the fridge for several days.

One Redditor raved about a similar lemon‑orzo variant:

“In a small bowl, whisk together the zest and juice of 1 lemon with olive oil, Dijon, salt and pepper… toss with garlic‑sautéed asparagus, cucumber & feta. Serve warm or chilled.”

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp

  • Serve alongside crusty bread or crudités

  • Add protein with chickpeas or grilled halloumi for a veggie‑packed meal

🧠 Pro Tips

  • Don’t overcook the orzo—al dente is key for texture

  • Chill salad before serving—flavors deepen and meld beautifully

  • Fresh herbs matter: basil + parsley bring brightness; feel free to toss in mint, dill, or arugula

✨ Final Thoughts

This Summer Orzo Salad is your go‑to for easy entertaining or a nourishing summer lunch. It’s flexible, refreshing, and bursting with Mediterranean vibes. Let me know how you customize it—your twist might be the next crowd‑pleaser!

If you’d like more recipes like this, just say the word—and I’ll keep them coming!

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