Orzo Salad with Lemon and Basil is a vibrant and refreshing pasta salad that combines the delicate texture of orzo with the zesty brightness of lemon and the fresh, aromatic flavor of basil. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for warm weather meals, picnics, or as a light lunch. It's a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even roasted vegetables, but it's also hearty enough to stand on its own as a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta, absorbs the tangy lemon dressing, while the basil infuses the salad with its fragrant, herbaceous notes. The combination of these ingredients creates a dish that's light, fresh, and packed with flavor.
Why Orzo Salad with Lemon and Basil?
This salad is both simple and elegant. It’s a great option for when you want something fresh but filling, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare. The orzo adds a satisfying texture, while the lemon and basil elevate the dish with their bright and fresh flavors. It's also a great make-ahead dish, as the flavors deepen as it sits in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick dish to take to gatherings.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (optional)
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
For the Dressing:1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
1 tsp lemon zest
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down. Set aside to drain completely.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
While the orzo is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion. If you're adding Kalamata olives or feta cheese, prepare those ingredients as well.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the dressing to your preference by adding more lemon juice for extra tang or more olive oil for a milder flavor.
4. Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled orzo with the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta (if using). Add the fresh basil, saving a little for garnish. Drizzle the lemon dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently to combine.
5. Serve
Serve the salad immediately, or refrigerate it for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of feta before serving. This salad can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
Tips and Variations:
Add protein:
For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost.
Customize your veggies:
You can easily add or swap vegetables like roasted red peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
Make it vegan:
Omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative to make the salad vegan-friendly.
Extra herbs:
Enhance the freshness by adding other herbs like parsley or mint along with the basil.
Make it ahead:
This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, as the flavors have time to develop. It's a great option for meal prep or a make-ahead side dish for picnics or barbecues.
Why This Recipe Works:
The light and bright flavors of the lemon and basil make this Orzo Salad perfect for warm weather. The orzo pasta provides substance, while the fresh vegetables and herbs keep it feeling light and refreshing. The lemon dressing, with its zesty acidity and hint of garlic, ties everything together, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. The optional feta and olives add a salty, briny element that contrasts beautifully with the sweet tomatoes and crisp cucumber.
Conclusion:
Orzo Salad with Lemon and Basil is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a main course. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or as a make-ahead lunch. With its bright citrusy dressing, fresh vegetables, and fragrant basil, this salad is bursting with the flavors of the Mediterranean.
Enjoy this easy, flavorful salad that’s light yet satisfying—a perfect combination of freshness and heartiness!
.jpg)
0 Comments