This refreshing Cucumber Lemon Orzo Salad is a bright and zesty dish! It features tender orzo pasta, crunchy cucumbers, and a tangy lemon dressing that will make your taste buds dance.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a tiny pasta shaped like rice, perfect for salads. If you can’t find orzo, try substituting it with couscous or quinoa, which will give a similar texture and absorb flavors well.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumbers add crunch and freshness. If cucumbers aren’t available, zucchini or diced celery can work well. For more flavor, you could also use pickles.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and mint bring brightness. If you’re short on fresh herbs, dried versions can work too, but use about a third of the amount. Basil would also be a delicious alternative.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy creaminess. You can substitute with goat cheese for a different flavor or use cubed mozzarella for a milder option if you prefer.
Lemon Juice and Zest: These provide a zesty flavor. If you’re out of lemons, try using lime juice, but the flavor will be slightly different. You can also use vinegar, but lemon zest gives a unique brightness.
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly?
Perfectly cooked orzo is key for this salad. Here’s how to do it step by step:
- Bring water or vegetable broth to a boil, then add orzo.
- Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor while cooking!
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check for al dente – you want it firm to the bite but not hard.
- Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking. This keeps it from getting mushy.
Taking the time to cook orzo right will make your salad much more enjoyable! Enjoy your refreshing salad!
How to Make Cucumber Lemon Orzo Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 1/4 cups water or vegetable broth (for cooking orzo)
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced or halved and sliced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper or radish, finely chopped (optional for a slight crunch and color)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For the Dressing:
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cucumber Lemon Orzo Salad will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus around 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, you’re looking at approximately 45 minutes total before it’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
In a medium saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo along with a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente (firm but not hard). Once cooked, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop it from cooking further. This also cools it down!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
Transfer the cooled orzo to a large mixing bowl. Now, add in the sliced cucumber, finely chopped red bell pepper or radish if you want that extra crunch, fresh parsley, and mint. Give that a gentle stir to mix everything together nicely.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This will be the dressing that brings all those fresh flavors together!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss everything together until it’s well combined. It should smell amazing!
5. Add the Feta:
Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese. Be careful not to break it too much; we want those lovely chunks of feta in the salad!
6. Taste & Adjust:
Give your salad a taste. If you think it needs more seasoning, feel free to add extra salt, pepper, or a little more lemon juice to brighten it up.
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once ready, serve cold or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Cucumber Lemon Orzo Salad!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo provides a nuttier flavor and adds more fiber. Just be aware that it may cook a bit longer, so check for doneness according to package instructions.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan by omitting the feta cheese or substituting it with a plant-based feta alternative. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor if you’d like!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle.
Is It Possible to Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots. Just be sure to chop them small enough so they blend well with the orzo.
