Greek Orzo Salad with Lemon and Dill
Bright and zesty, this Greek Orzo Salad is a burst of summer with every bite, featuring lemony tang and fresh dill.
Total: 25 minPrep: 15 minCook: 10 min4 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.7 (120+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 8 oz orzo pasta
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Steps
- 1 Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- 2 In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- 3 Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic in a small bowl.
- 4 Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss to coat.
- 5 Gently fold in the feta cheese and fresh dill.
- 6 Season with salt and pepper to taste, then toss again.
- 7 Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Equipment
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
Variations
- Add some chickpeas for extra protein.
- Swap orzo for quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Substitutions
- Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Use parsley instead of dill if you prefer.
Pairings
- A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
- Warm pita bread and hummus
Nutrition
Calories:
350 kcal
Fat:
18g fat
Carbs:
35g carbohydrates
Protein:
9g protein
Fiber:
3g fiber
Sugar:
6g sugar
Sodium:
600mg sodium
Tips
- For best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Add some olives or red bell pepper for extra texture and flavor.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good toss before serving.
Freezing: This salad does not freeze well due to the texture of the feta and vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Pair with warm pita bread for a Mediterranean feast.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after marinating in the fridge for a few hours.
What's a good substitute for orzo?
You can use small shells or farfalle pasta as a substitute.