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Lemon Orzo Salad With Feta

Zesty Lemon Orzo Salad With Feta for Effortless Freshness

This Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta offers a refreshing burst of flavors, perfect for summer cookouts or quick weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup orzo Use high-quality De Cecco for optimal firmness.
  • 1 red bell pepper Can substitute with yellow or green bell peppers for variation.
  • 1 cup cucumber Use English cucumber for fewer seeds.
  • 1 red onion Mild shallots can be a substitute for a less pungent taste.
  • 1 cup feta cheese Opt for block feta over pre-crumbled for better texture; Greek feta is tangier.
  • 1/4 cup parsley Use any mix of fresh herbs based on availability.
  • 1/4 cup basil Use any mix of fresh herbs based on availability.
  • 1/4 cup dill Use any mix of fresh herbs based on availability.
  • 2 cloves garlic Fresh minced garlic results in better flavor than powdered.
  • 2 lemons Use fresh lemons for the best juice.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup olive oil Lucini Premium Select is preferred for its refined flavor.
  • 1 tbsp honey Maple syrup can replace honey for a vegan option.
  • to taste salt Essential seasoning to enhance overall taste.
  • to taste pepper Essential seasoning to enhance overall taste.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Begin by dicing the red bell pepper and cucumber into small, bite-sized pieces. Mince the red onion and garlic finely.
  2. Roughly chop fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, and dill. Crumble the feta cheese into a bowl, maintaining some larger pieces for texture.
  3. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8–10 minutes.
  4. Drain the orzo through a colander and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until blended, and gradually drizzle in olive oil while whisking to create a smooth dressing.
  6. Once the orzo has cooled, add it to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold in the diced vegetables and chopped herbs, ensuring everything is mixed without breaking the orzo.
  7. Carefully fold in the crumbled feta cheese, preserving its creamy texture. Let the mixture sit briefly for the flavors to mingle.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  9. Serve chilled or at room temperature, drizzling with extra olive oil or lemon juice if needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 9gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 380mgPotassium: 290mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allowing your salad to chill for at least 30 minutes will meld the flavors beautifully. Save any additional dressing adjustments for just before serving to keep the salad vibrant and fresh.

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