Greek Orzo Salad with Lemon Dressing Recipe

Greek Orzo Salad with Lemon Dressing: Your New Go-To Healthy Salad Recipe

Are you looking for a vibrant, delicious, and healthy salad recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds? Meet the Greek Orzo Salad with Lemon Dressing. This dish combines the fresh, bold flavors of the Mediterranean with the hearty comfort of orzo pasta, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing that delivers the perfect punch.

Whether you’re an avid salad lover, an inquisitive home cook, or simply searching for your next meal-prep essential, this recipe is poised to become a staple in your kitchen. Get ready for rave reviews at your next lunch, picnic, or family dinner!

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What is Orzo? The Pasta That Thinks It’s Rice

Before we break out the chopping boards, let’s shine a little spotlight on the supporting star of this recipe: orzo.

Orzo, a tiny, rice-shaped pasta, is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and, to be honest, deserves much more attention in America. Despite its shape, it’s 100% pasta. Made from semolina flour, orzo is incredibly versatile. You can toss it into salads, stir it into soups, or serve it as a base for hearty mains.

Nutritional Note: Orzo provides a satisfying bite, while delivering complex carbohydrates to keep you energized. For those seeking an extra health boost, opt for whole wheat orzo, which contains more fiber and nutrients than the traditional variety.

The Ingredient Lineup

It’s time to gather your freshest produce and pantry staples. Here’s everything you’ll need for this Greek Orzo Salad with Lemon Dressing.

For the Salad:

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta (regular or whole wheat)
• 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional, but oh-so-refreshing!)
• 1 small bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), diced

For the Lemon Dressing:

• 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons juice)
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced or grated
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best-Ever Greek Orzo Salad

I promise, this salad is as easy as it is impressive! Here’s how you can whip up a bowl that’ll transport you straight to a sunny Greek island.

1. Cook the Orzo

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
• Drain and rinse the orzo under cold water to stop the cooking and keep it from sticking. Shake off all excess water.

Pro tip: Give the orzo a gentle toss with a teaspoon of olive oil after draining. This keeps the grains separate and adds a subtle richness.

2. Prep Your Veggies

• While the orzo is cooling, halve the tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and slice the red onion.
• Chop parsley and mint for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Slice the olives and crumble that creamy feta cheese.

3. Make the Lemon Dressing

• Grab a jar or small bowl and whisk together all the dressing ingredients: extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice and zest, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
• Give it a taste. Want more zing? Add an extra squeeze of lemon. Prefer it more herby? Toss in extra oregano!

4. Toss It All Together

• Place the cooled orzo in a large salad bowl.
• Add in all your prepped veggies, olives, herbs, and feta.
• Pour the lemon dressing over the top and toss everything until evenly coated.

Bonus tip: If you have time, chill the salad in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving. The flavors will get even brighter and more delicious!

5. Final Touches

• Give the salad one last taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
• Garnish with extra feta, herbs, or a few lemon slices for that “I-totally-made-this-from-scratch” chef’s touch.

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Tips and Easy Variations

Feeling inspired? This recipe loves a remix! Try these swaps and additions to keep your Greek Orzo Salad fresh and exciting:

• Protein Power: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra staying power.
• Add Leafy Greens: Toss in a couple handfuls of spinach or arugula for extra vitamins.
• Make It Vegan: Omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative.
• Nuts for Crunch: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds add a delightful crunch.
• Switch Up the Herbs: No mint on hand? Use dill or extra parsley.
• More Veggies: Roasted zucchini, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes add new layers of flavor.

Read more: Top 10 Pasta Salad Recipes for Summer You’ll Love

Health Benefits That Make You Feel Good

This is not just any salad; it’s a powerhouse of nutrients:

• Tomatoes: Packed with lycopene and vitamin C for immune support.
• Cucumbers: Hydrating and low-cal, keeping you refreshed and energized.
• Red Onion: Adds antioxidants and beneficial sulfur compounds.
• Kalamata Olives: Bring heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Feta Cheese: Adds calcium and protein, with less fat than most cheeses.
• Herbs: Parsley and mint are rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
• Orzo: Provides sustained energy, especially when you choose whole wheat.

Combined, these ingredients create a Healthy Salad Recipe that’s colorful, flavorful, and great for you.

Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion

Not sure when to enjoy your Greek Orzo Salad? The answer is basically “anytime,” but here are some ideas to get you started:

• Meal prep for the week: The salad holds up beautifully in the fridge for 3-4 days. Toss some in a mason jar for grab-and-go lunches.
• Barbecues and potlucks: It’s perfect for feeding a crowd and stands up well outdoors (just keep it cool).
• Dinner side: Serve with grilled fish, chicken, or lamb.
• Vegetarian main: Load with extra veggies or chickpeas for a filling plant-based meal.
• Picnic star: Pack it for your next picnic and watch it disappear!

Try This Greek Orzo Salad with Lemon Dressing Today

This salad, bursting with the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean, is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. This dish, featuring orzo pasta, crisp veggies, hearty olives, creamy feta, and a lively lemon dressing, fulfills all the requirements for flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation.

Feel free to personalize it with changes or additions, and then share your version in the comments. Who knows? You just might inspire another healthy eater or budding home chef. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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