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Lemony Orzo Pasta Salad with Cucumber and Feta

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This vibrant Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad combines tender orzo with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese. The bright lemon dressing brings all the flavors together, making it perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish. It’s quick to prepare and even better after the flavors have time to meld together.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, red onion, and fresh parsley.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a dressing.
  4. Add the cooked and cooled orzo to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

For best results, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to develop. This salad can be made up to 24 hours ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator. Add extra lemon juice or olive oil if needed before serving, as the pasta may absorb some dressing over time.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish, Salad
  • Method: Boiling, Mixing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: orzo, pasta salad, lemon, cucumber, feta, Mediterranean, summer, vegetarian, make-ahead

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Find it online: https://averyrecipes.com/lemony-orzo-pasta-salad-with-cucumber-and-feta/