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BEST LEMON ORZO PASTA SALAD centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Thomas Baker

Best Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe Quick and Fresh

This Best Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad is a bright and refreshing dish that's perfect for quick lunches or potlucks. Combining tender orzo, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing, it's an easy and flavorful recipe anyone can make.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

  • sea salt
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1/2 English cucumber
  • 1 bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup chopped parsley (freshly chopped for best flavor)
  • 1/2 cup chopped dill
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (sheep’s milk feta preferred for creaminess)
  • black pepper (freshly ground for better aroma)
  • 3 to 4 tbsp olive oil (good quality extra virgin olive oil like California Olive Ranch)
  • lemon zest (from 1 medium lemon)
  • juice of 1 lemon

Method
 

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo until just tender, about 6 to 8 minutes.
  2. Drain the orzo and rinse it briefly under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down.
  3. Chop the cucumber, bell pepper, parsley, and dill into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  4. Add the cooled orzo to the bowl with the vegetables and stir gently to combine.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a bright dressing.
  6. Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss everything well to evenly coat.
  7. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and give it one last gentle toss.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed, then serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • For creamier feta, use sheep’s milk feta if available. This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days, making it great for meal prep.