This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
This Lemon Basil Orzo Pasta Salad is a fresh, zesty dish that’s perfect for warm days and wonderful gatherings. Tender orzo pasta tossed with vibrant cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese, all brought together by a bright, lemony dressing. The star of the show? Fresh basil leaves that add a burst of aromatic flavor, making each bite refreshing and flavorful.
It’s so, so good my friends. I’ve made it several times in the past couple of weeks. The longer it sits, the better it gets. My daughters and I especially love it. It’s great “gal food”.
Take it along to your next back yard bbq, ladies lunch, church potluck, or pool party. It’s a great one to tuck into your repertoire.
You’ll want to be sure to use fresh basil. The deliciousness of the dressing depends on it. 🙂
Fresh lemon juice and zest is also a must.
The salad components are super simple. Just orzo pasta, cucumber, feta, tomatoes and spinach.
The dressing…goodness. It’s just so, so good. You could drink it, literally.
Hope you get a chance to try it!
Ingredients
- SALAD INGREDIENTS:
- 1 (16 oz) package orzo pasta
- 1 tsp chicken bullion granules
- 2 pints grape tomatoes, halved
- 4 mini cucumbers, sliced
- 1 1/2 C feta cheese crumbles
- 2 C spinach, chopped finely
- DRESSING:
- 2 C fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 1/2 Tb lemon zest (about 1 large lemon)
- 1/3 C lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
- 2/3 C olive oil
- 1/3 C vinegar
- 5 Tb sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Pour hot water into a medium sized sauce pan. Add a generous amount of salt and the bullion. Bring it to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions. Adding the bullion will enhance the flavor of the pasta. When it's done cooking, pour it into a colander you've place in your sink. Run cold water over the top to cool it all down.
- Add all the salad ingredients to a large salad bowl.
- Place all the dressing ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth and the basil has all been incorporated without any large pieces remaining.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
- Cover and chill for at least 4 hours and up to 24.
Enjoy!
Recipe from Jamie Cooks It Up!
