Can I use different vegetables?

Sure! Kalamata olives or other Greek olives are lovely. As are finely diced red onion, bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or pine nuts. Fresh dill or basil are great as well.

What to serve with orzo pasta:

This pasta salad is a pretty classic side dish, and gets along well with all your cookout favorites. It can also easily be made a meal. Simply toss with some grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or chickpeas for a protein boost.

Can I make orzo pasta salad in advance?

Yes. This lemon orzo salad is super flexible and can be made the day before. Simply chill until ready to serve. The flavors will marinate together in the fridge and can be enjoyed for 2-3 days.

Lemony Orzo Pasta Salad with Cucumber and Feta (+VIDEO)

Name: Lemony Orzo Pasta Salad with Cucumber and Feta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Greek Inspired
Ingredients: 1-1/2 cups dry orzo pasta ¹; 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, or just enough to lightly coat the pasta; 1 medium lemon, juiced and zested; 1 large English cucumber, seeded and chopped; 1 Tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped; 1 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled ²; kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste

Lemony Orzo Pasta Salad with Cucumber and Feta

★★★★★ 4.8 from 17 reviews

Author: Laura Bolton - Fork Knife Swoon
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad, savory
Cuisine: Greek Inspired
Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This fresh lemon orzo pasta salad is a flavorful mix of orzo pasta, lemon, cucumber, salty feta, and fresh herbs. Easy and delicious, this quick pasta salad recipe is a crowd-pleasing side dish and a classic Summer favorite. Vegetarian and gluten free friendly.

Ingredients

Scale

1–1/2 cups dry orzo pasta ¹
2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, or just enough to lightly coat the pasta
1 medium lemon, juiced and zested
1 large English cucumber, seeded and chopped
1 Tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
1 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled ²
kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Generously salt, and cook the orzo al dente according to package directions (about 9 minutes).
Meanwhile, prep the cucumbers and herbs. Set aside.
Drain the pasta, let cool for a couple of minutes, then transfer to a large mixing bowl and toss with the olive oil and lemon juice. Stir in the lemon zest, chopped cucumber, herbs, and feta.
Season generously with salt and pepper, to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy!!