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Homemade Lemon Herb Orzo Salad photo

Lemon Herb Orzo Salad

This Lemon Herb Orzo Salad is vibrant, fresh, and bursting with bright flavors. A perfect, easy-to-make dish for any occasion!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small Bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup orzo pasta small and pasta-like, perfect for salads
  • 2 cups vegetable broth used to cook the orzo for extra flavor
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cucumber diced
  • 1 cup bell peppers diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1/4 cup olive oil to dress and bring everything together
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice bright and zesty
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder for a subtle garlicky undertone
  • salt and pepper to taste, essential seasoning to enhance flavors

Instructions
 

  • In a medium saucepan, bring the 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente. Using broth instead of water infuses the orzo with subtle flavor. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and transfer the orzo to a large mixing bowl. Let it cool slightly.
  • While the orzo cooks, wash and chop your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell peppers, and finely chop the red onion. Also, chop the fresh parsley and basil.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste—if you like it tangier, add a bit more lemon juice.
  • Add the chopped vegetables and herbs to the slightly cooled orzo. Pour the lemon herb dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and give it one last gentle toss.
  • For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the orzo to keep it al dente and prevent mushiness.
  • Use vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the flavor of the orzo.
  • Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld well.
  • Add feta cheese just before serving to maintain its texture.
  • Toss gently with dressing to avoid soggy salad.
Keyword Easy, Fresh, Healthy, Make Ahead, Quick, Vegetarian