Easy Lemon Orzo Salad With Feta is a light, zesty dish that combines tender orzo pasta with tangy lemon dressing, salty feta, and fresh herbs. It’s the perfect side dish for grilled meats, a refreshing potluck option, or a simple weekday lunch.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

orzo pastalemon juicelemon zestolive oilgarlic (minced)feta cheese (crumbled)baby spinach or arugula (chopped)cucumber (diced)fresh dill or parsley (chopped)salt and black pepper

directions

Cook the orzo according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.

Add the cooked orzo, chopped greens, diced cucumber, and fresh herbs to the bowl.

Toss everything together until evenly coated.

Fold in the crumbled feta gently.

Chill for 15–20 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 as a side dish or 2–3 as a main dish.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesCooling time: 15–20 minutesTotal time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

Add cherry tomatoes or red onion for extra color and crunch.

Include chickpeas or grilled shrimp for added protein.

Use quinoa or couscous as an orzo alternative.

Swap fresh dill for basil or mint for a different herb profile.

Top with toasted pine nuts or almonds for added texture.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Best served chilled or at room temperature.Do not freeze, as the texture of the ingredients may change.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Store the dressing separately if preferred, but it also holds up well dressed.

Is it okay to use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Can I serve it warm?

Yes, it’s delicious slightly warm or at room temperature.

Is this salad vegan?

It’s vegetarian, but you can make it vegan by omitting the feta or using a plant-based version.

What’s the best type of feta to use?

Block feta crumbled by hand offers the best texture and flavor.

Can I add more veggies?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas make great additions.

Conclusion

Easy Lemon Orzo Salad With Feta is a bright, refreshing dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. With its tangy lemon dressing, fresh veggies, and creamy feta, it’s a versatile salad that works for any occasion—simple, satisfying, and always crowd-pleasing.