Description
This Greek Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Dressing is a refreshing, colorful dish combining tender orzo pasta, crisp vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a tangy lemon dressing. Perfect for quick lunches, vibrant sides, or impressive gatherings, it offers a nutrient-rich, versatile, and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cucumber, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese (plant-based), crumbled
Lemon Dressing
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (natural)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (natural)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the orzo. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta for the salad.
- Prep the Vegetables and Herbs: While the orzo cooks, chop cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and fresh herbs finely. Having uniform pieces ensures every bite is balanced and colorful.
- Make the Lemon Dressing: Whisk together fresh lemon juice (natural), extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar (natural), dried oregano (natural), salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified. This zesty dressing is the soul of the salad, tying all flavors together beautifully.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the cooled orzo with the chopped vegetables and herbs. Drizzle the lemon dressing over the top and mix gently to coat everything evenly.
- Add Feta and Serve: Finally, crumble plant-based feta cheese (plant-based) over the salad and give it one last gentle toss. Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to let flavors meld perfectly.
Notes
- Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness and maintain a delightful texture.
- Refrigerate salad for 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavor blending.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest dressing taste.
- Gently toast dried oregano before adding to the dressing for a unique aroma.
- Adjust seasoning after mixing all ingredients, as the feta cheese (plant-based) can add saltiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Greek Orzo Pasta Salad, Lemon Dressing, Plant-Based Feta, Mediterranean Salad, Healthy Pasta Salad, Quick Lunch, Gluten Free
