Go Back
The Zesty Lemon Dill Orzo Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a vibrant celebration of flavors and freshness. This delightful salad has gained popularity for its versatility, making it suitable for a variety of occasions—from summer picnics and backyard barbecues to meal prep for busy weekdays. With its bright, zesty notes and satisfying textures, this orzo salad not only tantalizes your taste buds but also nourishes your body, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious food lovers.

Zesty Lemon Dill Orzo Salad

Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Lemon Dill Orzo Salad, a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with fresh vegetables, zesty lemon, and creamy feta cheese, this salad is not just tasty but also nutritious. Cooked orzo, dressed with homemade lemon vinaigrette, brings a refreshing twist to your meals. Perfect for summer picnics or as a healthy meal prep option, it promises to impress your family and friends with every bite. Enjoy its versatility and explore different variations to match your taste!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups vegetable broth (for enhanced flavor)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium cucumber, diced

½ red bell pepper, diced

¼ cup red onion, finely chopped

¼ cup fresh dill, chopped

½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

¼ cup olives (black or Kalamata), pitted and sliced

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

Juice of 1 large lemon

Zest of 1 lemon

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Orzo: In a medium-sized saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a rolling boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process and cool it down.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients vigorously until the dressing is well blended and emulsified.

      Combine Vegetables: In a large salad bowl, add the cooled orzo along with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and sliced olives. Gently fold the ingredients together to create an even mixture.

        Add Herbs and Cheese: Carefully fold in the freshly chopped dill and crumbled feta cheese, taking care not to break the feta crumbles too much, allowing some larger pieces for texture.

          Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared lemon dressing over the orzo salad. Toss all the ingredients together gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing, ensuring that the flavors are beautifully incorporated.

            Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld and intensify. Serve the salad either chilled or at room temperature to enjoy its vibrant taste.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the orzo salad in a large, shallow bowl, garnished with a sprig of fresh dill and a few lemon wedges for an eye-catching finish. Consider drizzling a little extra olive oil around the edge of the dish for a polished look.