Zesty Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Lemon Dressing Recipe
Looking for a refreshing dish that bursts with flavor? This Mediterranean Orzo Salad is your answer! Packed with colorful vegetables and dressed with a bright lemon vinaigrette, it’s perfect for summer picnics or as a side dish at any gathering. The combination of textures and tastes will keep you coming back for seconds.
This salad is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of Mediterranean ingredients. With tender orzo pasta, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese, it’s a delightful mix of flavors that dance on your palate. The lemon dressing adds a vibrant tang, making every bite a little burst of sunshine.
A Delightful Mediterranean Orzo Salad
This Mediterranean Orzo Salad offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The tender orzo pasta pairs beautifully with a medley of fresh vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
Each ingredient adds its own unique touch, making the salad visually appealing and deliciously satisfying. The vibrant colors of the vegetables not only enhance the presentation but also indicate the fresh flavors waiting to be enjoyed.
Ingredients That Shine
The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers creates a refreshing base for this dish. Bell peppers add a sweet, crisp bite, while crumbled feta cheese brings in a creamy, salty contrast.
With the addition of black olives and fresh parsley, the salad is packed with Mediterranean flair. This combination is not just about taste; it also represents a variety of nutrients, making it a wholesome option for any meal.
The Zesty Lemon Dressing
A standout feature of this salad is the zesty lemon dressing. Whisked together with olive oil, lemon juice, and dried oregano, it perfectly complements the freshness of the vegetables.
This dressing ties all the elements together, infusing the salad with bright, tangy notes that brighten every bite. Adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper allows for a personalized touch.
A Delightful Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe
This Mediterranean Orzo Salad is light yet filling, featuring a medley of fresh vegetables, chewy orzo pasta, and a zesty lemon dressing. The dish is bright, refreshing, and perfect for those sunny days.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, feta cheese, olives, and parsley.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the lemon dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are well coated.
- Chill and Serve: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 210kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
Serving Suggestions
When serving this Mediterranean Orzo Salad, consider using a rustic bowl to enhance the presentation. Garnishing with extra parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
Pair it with a chilled beverage, and you have a fantastic dish that looks as good as it tastes. The combination of flavors, textures, and vibrant colors will surely impress guests and family alike.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing this Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a breeze. Start by cooking the orzo according to package instructions, then let it cool. The rest of the ingredients can be prepared while the pasta cools.
Mixing the ingredients in a large bowl allows for easy tossing with the dressing, ensuring every piece is coated with flavor. Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for a bit gives the flavors a chance to meld beautifully.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This salad is versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a summer picnic, a barbecue, or a simple weeknight dinner, it serves as a delightful side or a stand-alone dish.
Its light yet filling nature means it can satisfy without weighing you down, making it a go-to choice for warm-weather meals. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with grilled meats for a complete experience.
