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Fresh Cold Lemon Herb Orzo Salad

lemon herb orzo salad - featured image
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A quick, easy, and refreshing summer side dish featuring al dente orzo pasta tossed with a bright lemon herb dressing, cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, and creamy feta cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (270 grams) orzo pasta
  • 2 cups (300 grams) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¾ cup (120 grams) feta cheese, crumbled
  • ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 2 medium lemons
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) red wine vinegar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: ½ cup (75 grams) Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 ½ cups (270 grams) of orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 8-9 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent clumping.
  2. Drain the orzo well in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it quickly. Let drain thoroughly.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil, juice of 2 lemons, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) red wine vinegar, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop parsley and mint leaves. If using, slice Kalamata olives. Crumble the feta cheese.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled orzo with the lemon herb dressing. Fold in tomatoes, herbs, olives (if using), and feta cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, stir gently and add a drizzle of olive oil if the salad looks dry. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not overcook the orzo to avoid mushy texture. Rinse and drain thoroughly to prevent watery salad. Adjust seasoning after chilling as flavors mellow. Optional additions include toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for crunch. Substitute gluten-free pasta or quinoa for gluten-free version. Use vegan cheese or omit feta for dairy-free option.

Nutrition

Keywords: orzo salad, lemon herb salad, summer side dish, cold pasta salad, healthy salad, feta cheese salad, cherry tomato salad

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/fresh-cold-lemon-herb-orzo-salad-recipe-easy-healthy-summer-side-dish/