Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta Recipe

If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant side dish that bursts with bright flavors and is surprisingly simple to prepare, this Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender orzo pasta tossed with crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and tangy feta, all brought together by a zesty lemon dressing that’s perfectly balanced with a touch of honey and garlic. Whether you’re planning a summer picnic, a family dinner, or just want a versatile salad that keeps well, this dish offers a delightful medley of tastes and textures that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of fresh, simple ingredients, you’ll whip up a salad that’s both hearty and refreshing. Each item plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor and texture of this Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta Recipe, from the creamy feta cheese to the crisp peppers and fragrant herbs.

• 2 cups orzo (uncooked): The perfect petite pasta that soaks up all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant red color for visual appeal.
• 1 English cucumber, chopped: Provides refreshing moisture and a crisp texture that balances the hearty orzo.
• 1/2 red onion, small diced: Brings just enough bite and sharpness to contrast the creamy feta.
• 6 oz. feta cheese, crumbled: Delivers a salty, tangy creaminess that is absolutely essential.
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced: Packs in a punch of aromatic depth to elevate the dressing.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a dash of green vibrancy.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Offers a sweet and peppery fragrance that complements the lemon beautifully.
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon (1.5-2 oz juice): The star of the salad, providing citrus brightness and zing.
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil: Creates a luscious dressing that coats every bite.”;
• 1 tablespoon honey: Balances acidity with a subtle sweetness in the dressing.
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the flavors naturally.
• 1/2 teaspoon cracked pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.

How to Make Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Orzo and Prep the Veggies

Start by cooking the orzo according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente so it maintains a slight bite and doesn’t turn mushy. While the pasta cooks, chop the red bell pepper, English cucumber, and finely dice the red onion. Mince the garlic and chop the fresh parsley and basil. Preparing everything ahead makes assembling the salad quick and easy.

Step 2: Cool and Drain the Orzo

Once the orzo is perfectly cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse immediately with cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools the pasta quickly, preventing it from sticking together. Make sure to drain it thoroughly so the salad doesn’t get watery later.

Step 3: Toss Salad Ingredients Except Feta

In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, chopped veggies, herbs, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, honey, sea salt, and cracked pepper. Toss everything well until the dressing evenly coats the pasta and vegetables. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more olive oil, salt, or pepper as needed to suit your preference.

Step 4: Fold in the Feta Cheese

Gently fold the crumbled feta cheese into the salad, being careful not to break it up too much. The feta adds a creamy, salty element that perfectly offsets the fresh, bright flavors.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate the salad until you’re ready to serve. This resting period allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Give it a good toss before serving and add an extra drizzle of olive oil if you like for an extra touch of richness.

How to Serve Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your salad presentation with a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or even some chopped mint for a burst of freshness. A few lemon zest curls or thin lemon slices can add a charming visual pop and enhance the citrus notes.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a star side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables. Pair it with a light protein or hearty mains like lamb kebabs or Mediterranean-style roasted eggplant for a well-rounded feast that’s both satisfying and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out bell peppers or small mason jars for individual portions that look stunning at parties or casual gatherings. You could also layer it with other Mediterranean elements like olives and cherry tomatoes to create a colorful antipasto platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta Recipe stores beautifully in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to five days. Keep it chilled to maintain freshness and prevent the feta from getting too soft. Give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Freezing

We don’t recommend freezing this salad because the fresh vegetables and herbs will lose their crispness, and the texture of the feta may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

Reheating

This salad is intended to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmed, gently toss the orzo portion in a warm pan before adding the fresh veggies and herbs.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?

Absolutely! While feta adds a tangy, salty flavor, you could use goat cheese for creaminess or even Parmesan for a nuttier taste. Just keep in mind the cheese choice will alter the overall flavor profile slightly.

Is it possible to make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative or toasted nuts for added texture and richness without compromising the overall taste.

What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh basil or parsley?

Dried herbs won’t provide the same fresh vibrancy, but you can use dried oregano or thyme in a pinch. Otherwise, fresh mint or cilantro can add interesting flavor twists.

Can I prepare this salad without honey?

Definitely! The honey just balances the lemon’s acidity with a subtle sweetness. You can omit it or substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar based on your preference.

How long does it take to make this salad from start to finish?

This salad typically takes about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy dish to prepare even on busy days or for last-minute gatherings.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta Recipe that makes it both a reliable weeknight side and an impressive dish for entertaining. Its fresh ingredients, lively flavors, and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe you’ll want to keep on hand all year long. So grab your favorite bowl, start chopping, and enjoy the bright, zesty goodness that this salad brings to the table!

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