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Homemade Lemon Orzo Salad Recipe photo

Lemon Orzo Salad Recipe

A bright, fresh lemon orzo salad with vegetables, herbs, and creamy feta—quick to make and perfect for warm days.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups orzo
  • 1/3 cup lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Large Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  2. Drain the orzo in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it completely.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper until combined.
  4. Add the cooled orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, chopped parsley, chopped basil, and crumbled feta to the bowl.
  5. Toss everything gently to coat with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
  6. Chill the salad in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Notes

  • Cook the orzo until just al dente to avoid a mushy salad.
  • Rinse orzo under cold water to quickly cool it and stop cooking.
  • Adjust lemon and oil to taste for a brighter or richer dressing.
  • Chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor melding.