Refreshing Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad with Cucumbers

As the days warm up and the sun shines brighter, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing dish to complement the summer vibes. Enter the Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad with Cucumbers—a delightful combination of zesty flavors, vibrant colors, and a satisfying texture that makes for a perfect side dish or light meal.

Ingredients

To create this refreshing salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup of orzo pasta: This rice-shaped pasta provides a delightful bite.
• 1 medium cucumber: Diced for a crisp texture.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Halved for a burst of sweetness.
• 1/4 cup red onion: Finely chopped for a bit of zing.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley: Chopped for added freshness.
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon: For that citrusy punch.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: To bring all the flavors together.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.

Instructions

1. Cook the Orzo

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Usually, this takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

While the orzo is cooking, prepare the fresh vegetables. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion and parsley. Set them aside.

3. Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This bright dressing is what gives the salad its refreshing taste.

4. Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.

5. Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to meld and the flavors to deepen. When ready to serve, give it a little toss and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Salad

This Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad with Cucumbers is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. It can be served as a:

• Light Lunch: Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• Side Dish: It complements barbecued meats and works wonderfully at potlucks.
• Picnic Essential: Its ability to hold up well makes it perfect for outdoor gatherings.

Conclusion

Whatever the occasion, this Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad with Cucumbers is sure to steal the show with its zesty lemon flavor and colorful ingredients. Healthy, refreshing, and endlessly customizable, it’s a dish you’ll want to make time and time again. Enjoy savoring the taste of summer with every flavorful bite!