I love simple meals that bring big fresh tastes. Today, I’m sharing two easy orzo salad recipes that are perfect for any time you want something light and satisfying. These pasta salads are quick to make and full of vibrant ingredients.
Whether you’re packing a lunch, looking for a quick dinner side, or heading to a potluck, these orzo dishes are sure to be a hit. I hope you enjoy making and eating them as much as I do!
Jump to Recipe:
Easy Lemon Orzo Salad With Feta
This bright lemon orzo salad is perfect for a light lunch or a fresh side dish. It brings together sunny lemon flavor with creamy feta cheese.
Key Ingredients & Orzo Salad Tips
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Always use fresh lemons for the best, most vibrant taste in your dressing. It makes a big difference.
- Quality Feta Cheese: Opt for block feta packed in brine and crumble it yourself for better texture and flavor in your salad.
What You Need for Lemon Orzo
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
⏱️ Time: 20 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4 servings
How to Make Lemon Feta Orzo
Step 1: Cook the Orzo Pasta
Cook the orzo pasta according to package directions until it is al dente. Drain it well and rinse it with cold water. This stops the cooking and prevents the pasta from sticking together.
Step 2: Combine and Dress Your Salad
In a large bowl, gently combine the cooled orzo with the crumbled feta cheese, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and fresh parsley. Stir everything until it is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
📝 Final Note
This salad tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, allowing the lemon and feta flavors to come together nicely.
Easy Rainbow Orzo Salad Recipe
Get ready for a colorful meal with this simple rainbow orzo salad. It’s packed with veggies and makes a cheerful addition to any table.
Key Ingredients & Orzo Salad Pointers
- Colorful Vegetables: Use a mix of bell peppers, carrots, and red onion to create a vibrant look and varied textures in your rainbow salad.
- Light Dressing: A simple dressing of olive oil and apple cider vinegar lets the fresh ingredients shine through beautifully.
What You Need for Rainbow Orzo
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
⏱️ Time: 25 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4-6 servings
How to Make Rainbow Orzo Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Orzo Pasta
Boil the orzo pasta according to the package directions until it’s tender but still has a slight bite. Drain the pasta completely and let it cool down before you mix it with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Combine Vegetables and Dress
In a big bowl, add the cooled orzo, diced red and yellow bell peppers, shredded carrots, and finely diced red onion. Pour in the olive oil and apple cider vinegar, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything gently to mix well.
📝 Final Note
For best results, prepare this colorful salad a few hours ahead of time and chill it. The flavors will deepen and taste even better.