Full of tangy citrus, crumbled feta, and herbs, this fresh lemon orzo salad is a thoughtful addition to your summer table. The lemon vinaigrette brings all the flavors together - is simple to make and can be made a day or two ahead for convenient hosting prep. Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak - or a filet of local salmon.
Lemon Orzo Salad Makes 12 servings
- 1 pound dried orzo pasta
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest from 2 lemons
- ½ cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons white balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 1-2 small cloves garlic, or 1 teaspoon grated
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, or white pepper
- 2 cups Italian flat-leaf parsley or basil, roughly chopped
- 4 ounces fresh feta cheese, crumbled
- ½ cup chopped pistachios
Instructions
- Prepare the orzo according to the package instructions, generously salting the pasta water. Once cooked to your liking, drain and rinse gently with cold water. Set aside.
- Make the lemon vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, Dijon mustard, white balsamic vinegar, grated garlic, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo with the lemon vinaigrette and stir gently to coat.
- Just before serving, fold in the chopped herbs, crumbled feta, and pistachios. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes for the Host:
- Make ahead: Make the pasta and vinaigrette up to two days in advance when kept airtight in the refrigerator. Save the herb prep, nut chopping, and feta crumbling for day-of, just before serving.
- Add more protein: Throw in some grilled chicken or prawns - they pair wonderfully with this simple pasta salad.
- Make it your own: As always, if you have a stack of sliced almonds on hand or prefer a crumbly goat cheese, by all means - play around with this base recipe and make it something you and your guests will truly enjoy.
Amber Dawn Schultheis is a Snohomish-based hospitality and culinary creator and the founder of The Host Notes. From casual celebrations to Tuesday night dinner, she helps you gather with intention, joy, and ease. Find more seasonal, hospitality-focused recipes at thehostnotes.com and follow along @thehostnotes on your favorite social channels.