Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta Recipe

Fresh, tangy, and downright irresistible, Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta is one of those dishes that makes every gathering feel a little brighter. Imagine tender orzo pasta tossed with crisp vegetables, creamy feta, and a zippy lemon-herb dressing—simple ingredients, big flavors, and endless versatility. It’s a recipe that shines as a side or a light lunch, and you’ll want to make it again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta is proof that a handful of everyday ingredients can make something truly special. Each one plays its part—adding texture, tang, color, or creaminess—so don’t skip a thing!

• Orzo (2 cups, uncooked): The star of the show! This rice-shaped pasta cooks up quickly and soaks up all the zesty lemon dressing.
• Red bell pepper (1, chopped): For a crunchy pop of sweetness and vibrant color.
• English cucumber (1, chopped): Brings a cool, refreshing crunch and keeps the salad unique and light.
• Red onion (1/2, small diced): Adds sharpness and a little bite without overpowering the other flavors.
• Feta cheese (6 oz, crumbled): Creamy and salty, feta brings the salad together and gives it a Mediterranean flair.
• Garlic cloves (2-3, minced): For depth and zing—raw garlic wakes up the lemony dressing.
• Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Bright and green, parsley adds freshness and ties all the flavors together.
• Fresh basil (1/4 cup, chopped): Sweet and herbal, basil pairs perfectly with lemon and feta.
• Lemon (juice and zest of 1): The citrus backbone of the salad, giving it a tangy, sunshiny kick.
• Extra virgin olive oil (1/2 cup): Rich and fruity, this coats every bite and carries the flavor.
• Honey (1 tablespoon): A touch of sweetness balances the acidity and rounds out the dressing.
• Sea salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the natural flavors in every ingredient.
• Cracked black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right hint of spice.

Variations

Part of what makes this Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta such a winner is how effortlessly you can switch things up. Mix, match, and make it your own to suit your tastes, fridge finds, or dietary needs!

• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier, main-dish salad.
• Go Vegan: Skip the feta and drizzle with a little extra olive oil, or use a vegan cheese alternative.
• Switch the Herbs: Try mint or dill in place of, or alongside, parsley and basil for a Mediterranean twist.
• Extra Veggies: Fold in cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or baby spinach for even more texture and color.

How to Make Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to the package instructions—you want it just al dente, so it holds its shape in the salad. Once done, drain the orzo and immediately rinse it under cold water to cool it down and prevent sticking. Be sure to drain it thoroughly for the best texture.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies and Herbs

While the orzo cooks, chop your red bell pepper and cucumber into bite-sized pieces, dice the red onion, and mince the garlic. Give the parsley and basil a good, rough chop. The veggies add crunch and color; the herbs will give this salad its delightful lift.

Step 3: Mix and Toss the Salad

In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, chopped veggies, herbs, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly so the dressing and flavors coat every piece. Taste and fine-tune—add an extra splash of olive oil or a pinch more salt if you’d like.

Step 4: Add the Feta and Chill

Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese. Be careful not to overmix so you keep those lovely cubes intact! Cover the bowl and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve (it’s even tastier after a chill as the flavors meld together).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Just before serving your Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta, give everything a final toss and top with an extra drizzle of olive oil or a few fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy. It’s ready to steal the spotlight!

How to Serve Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta

Garnishes

This salad loves a finishing sprinkle of extra fresh herbs—think more parsley, basil, or even a handful of chopped mint. A crack of black pepper or thin ribbons of lemon zest make it pop. For a Mediterranean touch, add a spoonful of toasted pine nuts right before serving!

Side Dishes

Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta pairs beautifully with grilled chicken skewers, roasted salmon, or simple seared shrimp. It’s also stellar alongside veggie platters, falafel, or as a bright side to sandwiches and wraps. Don’t forget a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon slices to round things out.

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon the salad into scooped-out bell peppers or serve in mason jars for a portable lunch option. For picnics or potlucks, use a big serving platter and heap the salad high, garnished with extra feta and herbs for an inviting look. Mini cups or bowls make perfect individual servings for parties or buffets!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays delicious and fresh for up to five days—just give it a little toss before serving, and maybe add another drizzle of olive oil if it’s absorbed the dressing.

Freezing

Pasta salads with fresh veggies and cheese don’t freeze well—the texture and flavors suffer when thawed. Best to make and enjoy this salad fresh, or over the few days it lasts in your fridge.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature. If you want it slightly warmed, let it sit out for 10–15 minutes after pulling from the fridge. No need to reheat, but if you do, skip the microwave and let it gently come to temp for the freshest taste.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish to add color, flavor, and pure joy to your table, Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta will quickly become your new go-to. I can’t wait for you to try it—share it with friends, bring it to your next get-together, or tuck it into your lunchbox and savor every bite!

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