Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad Recipe
This vibrant Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad Recipe brings Mediterranean sunshine to your table. Fresh herbs dance with tangy lemon dressing.
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining orzo
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife for chopping
- Cutting board
- Whisk for dressing
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives pitted
- 1/4 red onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil water in large pot.
- Add orzo pasta to boiling water.
- Cook orzo for 8-10 minutes.
- Drain pasta in colander completely.
- Rinse orzo with cold water.
- Transfer cooled orzo to mixing bowl.
- Whisk lemon juice and olive oil.
- Add minced garlic to dressing.
- Pour dressing over orzo pasta.
- Add chopped fresh basil leaves.
- Mix in halved cherry tomatoes.
- Fold in crumbled feta cheese.
- Add kalamata olives and red onion.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss everything together gently.
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh basil for maximum flavor impact
- Don't overcook orzo; keep it slightly firm
- Chill the salad to enhance all flavors
- Add feta just before serving for freshness
- Double the recipe for large gatherings easily