Go Back
Summer Orzo Pasta Salad
Laura

Summer Orzo Pasta Salad

Fresh Summer Orzo Pasta Salad made with tomatoes, cucumber, sweet corn, feta, herbs and a bright lemon oregano dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 315

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces dry orzo pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup English cucumber diced
  • 3/4 cup sweet corn fresh or thawed frozen corn
  • 1/3 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1/3 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest finely grated
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt plus more for pasta water
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo pasta until just tender according to the package directions.
  2. Drain the orzo and rinse it briefly under cold water. Drain thoroughly and spread it in a shallow dish to cool.
  3. Whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt and black pepper together in a small bowl.
  4. Add the cooled orzo, tomatoes, cucumber, corn, red onion, parsley and basil to a large bowl.
  5. Pour over two-thirds of the dressing and toss gently until the ingredients are evenly coated.
  6. Fold in the feta cheese. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
  7. Toss again before serving and add the remaining dressing if needed.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the orzo because it will soften as it absorbs the dressing.
  • Reserve extra dressing to refresh leftovers.
  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.