Description
This refreshing Orzo Lemon Salad combines tender orzo pasta with crisp red bell pepper, celery, and red onion, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing and topped with creamy feta cheese. Perfect as a light lunch or bright side dish, this salad is quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo and Vegetables
- 2 cups uncooked orzo
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 small red onion, diced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing and Seasoning
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Sea salt, to taste
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until al dente, usually around 7 minutes or according to package instructions.
- Drain and Cool: Drain the orzo and rinse under cold water until cool to the touch. Shake off excess water thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- Prepare the Veggies and Lemon: While the orzo cooks, chop the red bell pepper, dice the celery and red onion, and roughly chop the parsley. Zest and juice the lemon.
- Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, chopped vegetables, feta cheese, and parsley. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with sea salt and cracked black pepper, starting with small amounts and adjusting to taste. Gently toss everything until evenly coated.
- Serve or Chill: Serve immediately at room temperature or chill for 30–60 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If refrigerated, stir before serving and add a small drizzle of olive oil if the salad firms up or the oil solidifies.
Notes
- Rinsing the orzo with cold water stops the cooking process and helps cool the pasta quickly.
- Adjust salt and pepper seasoning gradually to suit your taste.
- This salad can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- If you prefer, substitute feta cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan option.
- Adding a drizzle of olive oil before serving enhances the salad’s freshness if it has been chilled.
