Lemony Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad

Lemony Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad

Ingredients

  • for the lemon vinaigrette
  • lemon

    juiced, about 3 tablespoons

    1
  • minced shallot
    1 tbsp
  • garlic

    grated, about 1 teaspoon

    1 clove
  • dijon mustard
    1 tbsp
  • fresh thyme

    minced

    1 tsp
  • olive oil
    ⅓ c
  • for the orzo salad
  • orzo pasta
    8 oz
  • cherry tomatoes

    halved

    1 c
  • kalamata olives

    pitted and halved

    1 c
  • feta cheese

    crumbled

    2 oz
  • toasted pine nuts
    ¼ c
  • fresh herbs

    for garnish, see notes

Directions

  1. 1

    For the Lemon Vinaigrette:

  2. 2

    Place the lemon juice, minced shallot, and garlic in a medium bowl and allow it to sit for 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Next whisk in the dijon and thyme.

  4. 4

    Slowly add the olive oil, whisking constantly until the dressing is fully emulsified.

  5. 5

    Set aside until ready to use.

  6. 6

    For the Orzo Salad

  7. 7

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until al dente (make sure to check the time on the box as it will vary). Rinse with cold water and drain the orzo. Place it in a large bowl.

  8. 8

    Add the lemon vinaigrette to the bowl with the orzo and toss to combine. Add the cherry tomatoes, olives, feta, and pine nuts. Toss to combine. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Lemony Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad

Lemony Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad

351 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that brightens any table? This Lemony Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad is your answer, bringing together fresh ingredients for a taste of the Mediterranean in every forkful.

What makes this salad truly shine is the bright, homemade lemon vinaigrette. Infused with fresh lemon juice, grated garlic, minced shallot, and Dijon mustard, it perfectly coats the orzo and complements the briny olives and creamy feta. The simple combination of quality ingredients creates a harmonious balance of tangy, savory, and fresh flavors.

You can expect a delightful medley of textures and tastes with every bite. Tender orzo pasta provides a comforting base, beautifully contrasted by the burst of juicy cherry tomatoes and the distinct saltiness of Kalamata olives. Crumbled feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy richness, while toasted pine nuts introduce a subtle crunch and nutty aroma. The overall experience is light yet satisfying, with a zesty, herbaceous finish thanks to fresh thyme in the dressing and optional fresh herb garnish. It's a fresh, vibrant salad that feels sophisticated but is incredibly easy to prepare.

While perfect as is, this Lemony Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad is adaptable. If you're out of Kalamata olives, other briny olives can work in a pinch. You can also experiment with different types of soft, crumbly cheeses if feta isn't your preference. For the garnish, consider fresh parsley, dill, or mint to add another layer of aromatic freshness to this versatile dish. If pine nuts aren't available, slivered almonds could offer a similar textural element.

This bright pasta salad is ideal for a light lunch, a flavorful side dish at a potluck, or a refreshing addition to any summer spread. It pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or chicken, or stands beautifully on its own as a vegetarian main.

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