Save This Lemon Herb Orzo Salad is the kind of dish that makes you crave another bite bright citrus tang, tender pasta and heaps of fresh herbs all mingling together in a silky lemony dressing It is my go to for potlucks light lunches and weeknight dinners that need a flavor lift
The first time I made this salad I tossed in every herb I could find in my fridge It has since become the most requested picnic dish in my family and I even double the batch knowing there will never be extras left
Ingredients
- Orzo pasta: provides a creamy yet toothsome base cook until just al dente for best texture
- Cherry tomatoes: bring pops of juicy sweetness choose ones that are deeply colored and firm
- Cucumber: adds crisp freshness peel if you like it extra mild
- Red onion: gives a gentle sharpness look for onions with taut shiny skins for mildest flavor
- Fresh parsley: packs a green punch curly or flat leaf both work
- Basil: infuses fragrant flavor roll the leaves and slice thin for best results
- Dill: brings a bright herbal lift snip from the bunch right before using
- Extra virgin olive oil: delivers richness choose one with a fresh grassy aroma
- Lemon juice and zest: create zing select a heavy lemon full of juice
- Garlic: adds punch mince finely to avoid sharp bites
- Honey or maple syrup: balances acidity opt for local if possible
- Salt and black pepper: heighten all the flavors
- Feta cheese crumbles: bring creamy saltiness use block feta for best quality
- Toasted pine nuts: add buttery crunch look for evenly golden pieces
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo:
- Bring a medium pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add the orzo Stir occasionally so it does not stick to the pot Cook for about ten minutes or until just al dente then immediately drain and rinse briefly under cool water to stop the cooking
- Prepare the Lemon Dressing:
- While the orzo cooks whisk together the olive oil freshly squeezed lemon juice lemon zest minced garlic honey salt and cracked black pepper in a large mixing bowl Do not rush this step make sure the honey or maple syrup is fully dissolved and the dressing is smooth
- Toss Orzo with Dressing:
- Add the drained warm orzo directly into the bowl with the dressing Toss thoroughly so every grain of pasta soaks up the zesty flavors Warm orzo absorbs flavor better than cooled
- Fold in the Vegetables and Herbs:
- Gently add the halved cherry tomatoes diced cucumber red onion chopped parsley sliced basil and chopped dill Use a large spoon to mix slowly so the vegetables stay crisp and the herbs keep their vibrance
- Add the Optional Extras:
- If desired sprinkle in crumbled feta cheese and toasted pine nuts Fold them through carefully so the cheese stays chunky and the pine nuts do not break apart
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
- Taste and add more salt pepper or a squeeze of lemon if you want more brightness Serve right away while it is warm for a comforting main or let it cool to room temperature for a refreshing salad
Save My favorite ingredient has to be the abundant fresh dill Its aroma always reminds me of summers at my grandmother's house picking herbs from the garden I still catch that same scent every time I chop up a fresh bunch for this salad and it brings back the best family memories
Storage Tips
Leftover salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Give it a quick toss before serving If you know you will store for longer keep the herbs and feta aside until the last minute so everything stays vibrant
Ingredient Swaps
No orzo Use small shapes like couscous farro or even quinoa for a gluten free twist No pine nuts Sunflower seeds or chopped almonds can give you the right crunch If you want more veggies add blanched asparagus small peas or even blanched broccoli florets
Serving Suggestions
This orzo salad makes a filling lunch topped with a soft boiled egg or alongside roasted salmon It also pairs perfectly at a barbecue with grilled chicken or can brighten up a mezze platter As leftovers I have even piled it onto toasted bread for a speedy snack
Cultural Roots
Inspired by Mediterranean flavors where pasta meets garden produce and bright citrus it is the kind of colorful dish you would find at a Greek family table Herbs not only add flavor but also carry a tradition of gathering from the garden and sharing at communal meals
Seasonal Adaptations
Use whatever is bursting from the market Spring snap peas instead of cucumber Early summer try sweet corn and extra basil Fall young arugula or spinach can stand in for herbs
A few helpful notes
Prep all your veggies while the pasta cooks to save time Herbs are best added at the end for maximum aroma Taste the dressing before adding orzo to tweak the lemon honey or salt
Success Stories
I have taken this salad to countless parties and it is always the first to disappear One friend started making it for her weekly desk lunches Another swapped in small roasted beets and called it her new signature salad It has definitely become a kitchen favorite in our circle
Freezer Meal Conversion
Orzo salads are best served fresh but you can freeze the undressed cooked orzo in a zip top bag for up to one month Thaw and toss with fresh vegetables and dressing when ready to eat This helps you whip up a batch fast if you are meal prepping for the week
Save This salad makes a stunning main or bright side and disappears fast whenever I bring it out Give it a try at your next gathering and watch it become a family favorite
Kitchen Guide
- → Which herbs work best in this orzo salad?
Fresh parsley, basil, and dill bring lively flavor. Mint can be swapped for dill for a twist.
- → Can the dish be made vegan?
Yes, simply omit feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative for a dairy-free option.
- → What proteins can I add for extra substance?
Cooked chickpeas, grilled chicken, or fish pair well and boost protein content.
- → How do I prevent orzo from sticking together?
Use plenty of boiling salted water and toss orzo with dressing while still warm.
- → Is this salad best served warm or cold?
It's excellent served warm or at room temperature, making it flexible for various settings.
- → Does the dish contain common allergens?
It contains wheat (gluten) and dairy if feta is included. Pine nuts may trigger nut allergies.