Description
Summer Orzo Pasta Salad is a vibrant, light side dish that combines al dente orzo with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, colorful bell pepper, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. This easy, make-ahead recipe is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or weeknight meals, offering refreshing flavors and a satisfying texture. Use fresh herbs like parsley for extra brightness, and enjoy a nutritious, low‑calorie option that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook orzo until al dente, drain and rinse under cold water.
- Combine orzo with tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and parsley.
- Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Toss dressing with salad until coated.
- Chill at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor
- add a handful of toasted pine nuts or crumble feta cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Summer Orzo Pasta Salad, easy summer salad, lemon vinaigrette recipe, quick pasta side, picnic pasta salad, healthy orzo salad, fresh vegetable pasta, make ahead salad, light summer dish