Greek Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta and Mint

Introduction

Welcome to a refreshing and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish – Greek Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta and Mint. This salad is a delightful blend of orzo pasta, tangy feta cheese, fresh mint, and a zesty lemon dressing, creating a light and satisfying meal or side dish.

Ingredients

– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 English cucumber, diced
– 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Optional: Kalamata olives, for a briny twist

Directions

1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse it under cold water to cool.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and mint leaves.

4. Pour the dressing over the orzo salad and toss gently to ensure everything is coated evenly.

5. For an extra burst of flavor, add Kalamata olives to the salad.

6. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

7. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and taste for seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.

8. Garnish with additional mint leaves and a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving.

Enjoy this Greek Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta and Mint as a light lunch, a picnic side dish, or a refreshing addition to any summertime gathering. The combination of citrusy lemon, savory feta, and aromatic mint will transport your taste buds to the shores of the Mediterranean.

Frequently Asked Questions about Greek Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta and Mint

What is Greek Lemon Orzo Salad?

Greek Lemon Orzo Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish made with orzo pasta, typically cooked al dente, mixed with ingredients like feta cheese, fresh mint leaves, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy lemon dressing. It’s a popular side dish or light meal known for its bright and zesty flavors.

How do you make Greek Lemon Orzo Salad?

To make Greek Lemon Orzo Salad, cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions, then cool it down. In a bowl, mix the orzo with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, chopped mint leaves, and a dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together gently and let it chill in the fridge before serving.

Is Greek Lemon Orzo Salad healthy?

Yes, Greek Lemon Orzo Salad can be a healthy choice as it incorporates fresh ingredients like vegetables, herbs, and olive oil. Orzo pasta, though a type of pasta, is lower in calories than traditional noodles. The salad offers a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, making it a satisfying and nutritious option.