Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad

EASY, ready in 25 minutes, and bursting with fresh flavors, Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad is perfect for gatherings. Whether it’s a party, picnic, or potluck, this salad is versatile enough to please any crowd. The combination of lemon and basil gives it a refreshing taste that stands out. Plus, it’s packed with healthy ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy days.
• Fresh and Flavorful: With the bright flavors of lemon and basil, this dish is a delightful treat for your taste buds.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it warm, at room temperature, or chilled—it’s great for parties, picnics, or as a side dish.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein-rich garbanzo beans, it’s as healthy as it is delicious.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe serves 10 people, making it perfect for large gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot: Ideal for cooking orzo evenly without overcrowding.
• Large Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables to enhance their flavor.

Ingredients

EASY, ready in 25 minutes, and lemon and basil give it such a FRESH taste!! Feeds a crowd, great for parties, picnics, and potlucks!

For the Orzo Base

• 1 pound orzo (cooked according to package directions and drained)

For the Vegetable Mixture

• 3 tablespoons olive oil for pan + more for finished dish (as desired)
• 1 medium sweet Vidalia onion (diced small)
• 1 medium zucchini (diced into half moons)
• one 15-ounce can garbanzo beans (drained and rinsed (I use low salt))
• 2 + teaspoons kosher salt (or to taste)
• 1 + teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 to 4 cloves garlic (pressed or finely minced)

For the Fresh Ingredients

• 5 ounces fresh spinach (about 4 giant handfuls)
• 1/2 English cucumber (diced into small half moons)
• 1 pound sliced cherry or grape tomatoes (or to taste)
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup fresh basil loosely measured (chiffonade (in ribbons); or to taste)

For the Dressing

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (or to taste)
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (or to taste)

For the Cheese

• 6 ounces crumbled feta cheese

How to Make Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

1. To a large pot, add the orzo and cook according to package directions. Drain and return to pot or very large bowl; set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. While orzo is cooking, add 3 tablespoons olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions and cook for about 3 minutes; stir intermittently.
3. Add diced zucchini and garbanzo beans. Season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon pepper, Italian seasoning, oregano. Cook for about 3 more minutes until the zucchini is slightly softened; stir frequently.

Step 3: Add Garlic

1. Add pressed garlic to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine with Orzo

1. Transfer the onion-zucchini mixture to the large pot with drained orzo.

Step 5: Add Spinach

1. Add fresh spinach; stir well until incorporated. It will wilt down quickly from the heat.

Step 6: Mix in Fresh Ingredients

1. Stir in diced cucumber, sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice until everything is well combined.

Step 7: Incorporate Feta Cheese

1. Gently fold in crumbled feta cheese; if you prefer intact feta cubes, wait until the mix has cooled slightly before adding.

Step 8: Adjust Seasoning

1. Taste your salad; adjust with additional salt and pepper as needed—up to approximately another two teaspoons salt depending on preference.

Step 9: Drizzle Additional Olive Oil

1. If desired, drizzle in additional olive oil while mixing gently; this adds flavor and keeps the orzo from sticking together as it cools.

Step 10: Serve

1. Serve immediately! This salad can be enjoyed warm but also tastes great at room temperature or chilled later on.

Enjoy your delightful Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad!

How to Serve Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad

This Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a picnic, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it as a light main course for lunch or dinner. The combination of orzo, beans, and veggies provides a satisfying meal that’s both filling and nutritious.

At a Potluck

• This salad is perfect for potlucks! Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors will impress your guests. Simply prepare it in advance and chill before serving.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken, beef, or lamb. The lemony flavor complements grilled dishes beautifully, creating a refreshing contrast.

As a Side Dish

• Use this salad as a side dish alongside your favorite entrees. It makes an excellent accompaniment to roasted vegetables or seafood dishes.

Chilled for Hot Days

• Enjoy it chilled on hot summer days. This refreshing salad is hydrating and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for outdoor gatherings.

How to Perfect Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad

To make the most of your Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad, keep these tips in mind to enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the dish’s taste. Opt for ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil for the best results.

• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving. You may want to add extra lemon juice, salt, or pepper according to your preference.

• Let It Chill: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Customize Add-Ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like olives, bell peppers, or artichokes. Customizing keeps the dish interesting every time you make it.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and complement the salad’s flavors beautifully.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers and eggplant provide a hearty side option that pairs well with the freshness of the salad.

3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with quinoa or rice and spices for a colorful addition that’s both filling and nutritious.

4. Crispy Baked Falafel: These chickpea fritters offer a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the softness of the orzo salad.

5. Garlic Breadsticks: Warm garlic breadsticks are always a hit! Serve them on the side for dipping into any leftover dressing from the salad.

6. Greek Yogurt Dip with Veggies: A cool yogurt dip alongside fresh vegetable sticks adds creaminess and crunch that balances well with the salad’s textures.

7. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing tabbouleh salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat adds another layer of flavor while keeping things light.

8. Hummus Platter: Serve assorted hummus flavors with pita chips and vegetable crudités for a fun appetizer that pairs perfectly with your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Orzo: Cooking the orzo too long can make it mushy. Always follow package instructions closely for perfect texture.

• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season your vegetables and orzo can lead to bland flavors. Use enough salt, pepper, and seasonings to bring out the dish’s delicious taste.

• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or old vegetables can ruin the freshness of your salad. Always select fresh vegetables, especially the basil and spinach.

• Adding Cheese Too Early: Mixing feta cheese into hot ingredients can cause it to melt excessively. Wait until the salad cools a bit before adding it for best texture.

• Not Tasting Before Serving: Skipping the tasting step might leave your salad under-seasoned. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed for optimal flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best consumed within 1-2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad that may help you:

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

You can substitute any small pasta shape like ditalini or mini shells if you prefer variety while keeping the flavors consistent.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.

What should I serve with Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a larger Mediterranean-inspired meal.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or artichokes for varied flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for gatherings or a quick lunch. This recipe not only feeds a crowd but also allows for plenty of customization. Try adding your favorite veggies or proteins to make it uniquely yours!