Refreshing Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe

Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette dances on your taste buds like a Mediterranean fiesta. This dish combines fluffy orzo pasta with vibrant veggies, all drizzled in a zesty lemon vinaigrette that makes every bite feel like a sunny day at the beach. The moment you dig into this salad, the flavors burst forth, and you can practically hear the waves crashing.

This recipe takes me back to summer barbecues where laughter mingles with the smell of grilled delights. Picture friends gathered around, sharing stories while savoring this delightful salad. Whether it’s a potluck or a cozy weeknight dinner, Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is perfect for any occasion. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your guests!

Ingredients for Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta serves as the base of the salad, soaking up all those lovely flavors.

• Cucumber: Fresh and crunchy cucumbers add a refreshing crunch that perfectly balances the dish.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy cherry tomatoes provide bursts of flavor and color to the salad.

• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion gives a mild sharpness that elevates the overall taste profile.

• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tanginess that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brings freshness and a pop of green to brighten up the presentation.

For the Lemon Vinaigrette:

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides richness and depth to the dressing; choose high-quality for best results.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key for that bright flavor; bottled juice just won’t cut it!

• Dijon Mustard: A teaspoon of Dijon mustard adds a subtle kick and helps emulsify the vinaigrette.

• Honey: A touch of honey balances out the acidity of the lemon for a perfectly harmonious dressing.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in about one cup of orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool down.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies

While the orzo cooks, chop up one cucumber, slice some cherry tomatoes in half, and thinly slice about half of a red onion. Toss them all into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together about half a cup of extra virgin olive oil, juice from one fresh lemon, one teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and one tablespoon of honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once your orzo has cooled down, combine it with the chopped veggies in the mixing bowl. Pour over your zesty lemon vinaigrette and toss everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Add Feta Cheese

Crumble about half a cup of feta cheese over your salad mixture. Gently fold it in so as not to break up all those cheesy morsels too much.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it over your salad for that final touch. Serve immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour; this allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining dressing if desired for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every bite as you transport yourself straight into Mediterranean bliss!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the orzo pasta until al dente. While it’s bubbling away, whisk together your lemon vinaigrette. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and mix it with fresh vegetables and herbs, drizzling in that zesty dressing for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to jazz up your Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette! Swap in roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, add some feta cheese for creaminess, or toss in chickpeas for extra protein. The options are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you need to reheat, a quick spin in the microwave works wonders. Just add a splash of water for moisture.

Making this Orzo Pasta Salad always reminds me of summer barbecues at my aunt’s house. The laughter and chatter mixed with that vibrant salad created memories I’ll cherish forever.

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette?

To make Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, you will need orzo pasta, fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Additionally, gather fresh herbs such as parsley and basil. For the dressing, you’ll require olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This combination creates a refreshing salad perfect for warm days or as a side dish at gatherings.

How long does Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette last in the fridge?

Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days when stored in an airtight container. To maintain freshness, ensure that the salad is well-coated with the vinaigrette. If you notice any excess liquid after a couple of days, simply toss it before serving to revive its flavor and texture.

Can I customize my Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette?

Absolutely! One of the great things about Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is its versatility. You can add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra nutrition. Consider incorporating other vegetables such as spinach or olives for varied flavors. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or even cheeses like feta to enhance your salad further.

Is Orzo Pasta Gluten-Free?

Traditional orzo pasta is made from wheat and contains gluten. However, there are gluten-free alternatives available made from rice or corn that you can use in your Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette. Always check the packaging if you’re following a gluten-free diet to ensure safe consumption without any gluten content.

Conclusion for Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette:

In summary, Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. With its easy preparation and customizable options, it serves as a perfect side dish or light meal. The tangy lemon vinaigrette enhances the overall taste while keeping the salad refreshing. Enjoy this delicious recipe at your next gathering or as part of your weekly meal prep!

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Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

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Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines fluffy orzo pasta, crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. This vibrant salad is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light meal. With its refreshing flavors and colorful presentation, it’s sure to impress at any occasion.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
3. In another bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooled orzo to the vegetable mixture and pour in the vinaigrette. Toss until well combined.
5. Gently fold in crumbled feta cheese and top with fresh parsley.
6. Serve immediately or chill for one hour to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: - Customize with seasonal veggies like bell peppers or add protein such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for added nutrition. - For optimal flavor, allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator before serving.