Imagine a dish that transports you to the sun-drenched Greek islands with just one bite - our Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta is exactly that culinary magic! This vibrant, refreshing salad combines the tangy brightness of lemon, the creamy richness of feta, and the delicate texture of orzo pasta into a symphony of flavors that will revolutionize your summer dining experience. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a stunning side dish, or a light dinner that doesn't compromise on taste, this recipe is your ultimate Mediterranean-inspired solution.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add 1 cup of orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the orzo is cooking, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil and 1/4 cup of lemon juice until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the orzo is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Allow it to drain thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese, and 1/2 cup of chopped parsley. Gently toss the ingredients together to combine.
- Pour the lemon-olive oil dressing over the orzo mixture. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed, and give the salad one final toss.
- Serve the Lemon Orzo Salad chilled or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to a day, allowing the flavors to meld.
Tips
- Always salt your pasta water generously - this is your first chance to build flavor from the ground up.
- Rinse the orzo with cold water to stop cooking and prevent clumping, ensuring a perfect al dente texture.
- Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
- For extra freshness, consider adding some lemon zest to boost the citrusy profile.
- This salad is incredibly versatile - try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables to make it a complete meal.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice for the most authentic Mediterranean taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 229kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg
