Description

This refreshing Orzo Lemon Salad is a vibrant and zesty pasta salad perfect for a quick lunch or a light side dish. Featuring tender orzo pasta combined with crisp red bell pepper, celery, red onion, and fresh parsley, all tossed in a bright lemon and olive oil dressing and topped with crumbled feta cheese, this salad is both flavorful and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Orzo and Vegetables

2 cups uncooked orzo
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 stalks celery, diced
1 small red onion, diced

Herbs and Cheese

¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing and Seasoning

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Sea salt, to taste
Cracked black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 7 minutes.
Drain and Cool: Drain the cooked orzo and rinse it under cold water until it’s cool to the touch. Shake off any excess water to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
Prepare the Veggies and Herbs: While the orzo cooks, chop the red bell pepper, dice the celery and onion, and roughly chop the parsley. Zest and juice the lemon.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with the chopped vegetables, feta cheese, and parsley. Pour the olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest over the mixture. Season with sea salt and cracked black pepper, adding gradually to taste. Gently toss everything until evenly coated.
Serve or Chill: Serve immediately at room temperature, or chill the salad for 30 to 60 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If chilled, stir before serving and add a small drizzle of olive oil if the salad firms up or the oil solidifies.

Notes

For best flavor, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Adjust salt and pepper gradually to suit your taste preferences.
This salad can be made a few hours ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
Additions like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers can provide more crunch and color.
Use gluten-free orzo if you require a gluten-free version.