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Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta is a bright and refreshing dish that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the creaminess of feta cheese. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or a picnic. This salad is not only tasty, but it’s also easy to make and packed with healthy ingredients.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it is simple and requires minimal cooking. Second, it is versatile; you can serve it warm or cold, making it perfect for any season. Third, the fresh ingredients give it a burst of flavor that makes it enjoyable for everyone, whether you are cooking for your family or hosting friends.

How to Make Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta

Making Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta is quick and easy, and it can be done in just a few steps.

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups water
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup olive oil
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the orzo pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let it cool.
In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese to the bowl.
Toss gently to combine all the ingredients with the dressing.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta

You can serve this salad as a main dish or as a side. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or even by itself. For a picnic, pack it in a container, and it’s ready to go. Enjoy it cold or at room temperature for the best taste.

How to Store Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for about 3 days. If you find the salad has dried out a bit, you can add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice to revive it before serving.

Tips to Make Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta

Make sure to let the orzo cool before mixing it with the other ingredients to keep the vegetables fresh and crunchy.
Use fresh ingredients to enhance the flavor.
Adjust the amount of lemon juice and olive oil to suit your taste preferences.

Variation

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or avocado for an extra twist. You can also swap feta cheese for goat cheese if you prefer a stronger flavor.

FAQs

Can I make the salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Is this salad gluten-free?
No, orzo is made from wheat. However, you can look for gluten-free pasta alternatives to make a gluten-free version.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?
You can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemon juice will give you the best flavor.