Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad

EASY, ready in 25 minutes, and the combination of lemon and basil gives it such a FRESH taste! The Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad is perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you’re hosting a party, heading to a picnic, or contributing to a potluck. This vibrant dish not only delights the palate but also provides a colorful addition to any table setting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up this salad in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Fresh Flavors: The zesty lemon and fragrant basil come together for an invigorating taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main dish, this salad fits well into any meal or occasion.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein-rich garbanzo beans, this salad is both filling and healthy.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With enough servings for 10 people, it’s great for gatherings and celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready helps in following the recipe efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the orzo properly; it holds enough water for even cooking.
• Skillet: Used to sauté vegetables to bring out their flavors; ensures even heat distribution.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients; helps keep your workspace organized.

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 Salad Base:

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

For Seasoning:

• 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 Fresh Veggies:

• 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)

For Dressing:

• 1/4 to 1/3 cup fresh basil loosely measured (chiffonade in ribbons; or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (or to taste)
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (or to taste)

For Topping:

• 6 ounces crumbled feta cheese

How to Make Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

To start, add the orzo to a large pot filled with boiling water. Cook according to package directions. Once done, drain the orzo and return it to the pot or transfer it to a very large bowl. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil along with the diced onions. Cook for about 3 minutes while stirring intermittently until they are translucent.

Step 3: Add Zucchini and Beans

Next, mix in the diced zucchini and garbanzo beans. Season with approximately 1 teaspoon of salt and pepper each. Add Italian seasoning and oregano. Cook for another 3 minutes until the zucchini is slightly softened, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Incorporate Garlic

Add minced garlic into the skillet with vegetables. Stir well and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine with Orzo

Transfer the onion-zucchini mixture into the large pot containing drained orzo.

Step 6: Add Spinach

Add fresh spinach into the mixture; stir well as it may seem like a lot initially, but it will wilt down quickly. Continue stirring for about 2 minutes until wilted from heat.

Step 7: Mix in Remaining Veggies

Now add diced cucumbers, sliced tomatoes, chiffonade basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir everything together thoroughly.

Step 8: Finish with Feta

Gently fold in crumbled feta cheese. If you prefer larger pieces of feta that don’t melt entirely into the salad, add it once everything has cooled slightly.

Step 9: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your salad before serving. Feel free to adjust seasoning by adding more salt or pepper as needed—it’s essential when preparing large quantities like this one.

Step 10: Drizzle Olive Oil

If desired, drizzle additional olive oil over the salad—this enhances flavor and keeps the orzo from sticking as it cools.

Step 11: Serve

The Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad can be served immediately while warm or chilled at room temperature—perfectly versatile!

How to Serve Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad

Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick meal, there are plenty of serving options to enhance this refreshing dish.

As a Stand-Alone Dish

• This salad is hearty enough to be served alone as a light lunch or dinner. The combination of orzo, beans, and vegetables provides a satisfying meal.

At Room Temperature

• Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad can be made ahead of time and served at room temperature. This makes it perfect for potlucks or picnics where refrigeration may not be available.

Chilled

• For a refreshing treat, chill the salad in the refrigerator before serving. The flavors meld beautifully when allowed to sit, making each bite even tastier.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken or turkey for a complete meal. The lemony flavor complements the meat well while adding vibrant colors to your plate.

As a Side Dish

• Serve Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad as a side dish alongside grilled veggies or fish. It adds a delightful contrast to richer proteins.

How to Perfect Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad

To ensure your Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs. This elevates the flavor profile of the salad significantly.

• Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Follow package instructions closely to avoid mushy pasta. Al dente orzo gives the salad the right texture.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice according to your preference for optimal flavor.

• Add Feta Last: To keep feta cheese intact, add it just before serving. This maintains its shape and adds a beautiful presentation.

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

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad

When serving Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad, consider pairing it with complementary side dishes that enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated and grilled chicken skewers add protein and pair wonderfully with the bright flavors of the salad.

2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender offers a delicious contrast in texture and taste.

3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with quinoa or rice mixtures for a colorful side that goes well with the Mediterranean theme.

4. Hummus Platter: Serve an assortment of hummus varieties with pita and fresh vegetables for dipping, creating a fun appetizer option.

5. Greek Yogurt Dip: A tangy yogurt dip made with herbs can provide a cooling effect alongside the salad’s zestiness.

6. Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad: This simple mix highlights fresh ingredients similar to those in your main dish while adding variety.

7. Grilled Shrimp: Tender shrimp seasoned with lemon and herbs make an elegant addition that complements the flavors of the orzo salad.

8. Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs gives another grain option that works nicely alongside your Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the salt: Many people overlook seasoning their orzo while cooking. Always add salt to the boiling water; this step enhances the overall flavor of your dish.

• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking veggies too long can lead to mushiness. Aim for a slightly crisp texture by monitoring the cooking time closely.

• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using wilted or old produce can affect the taste. Always select fresh ingredients, especially basil and spinach, for the best flavors.

• Not adjusting flavors: Taste your salad before serving. You might need extra lemon juice, salt, or pepper to balance the flavors perfectly.

• Forgetting about cooling: If you want your feta cheese to stay intact, let the orzo cool slightly before mixing it in. This keeps it from melting too much.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it’s cooled down before sealing.

Freezing Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best consumed within 1 month for optimal taste.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salad in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals until warm. Stir between intervals.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad.

Can I use whole wheat orzo instead?

Yes! Whole wheat orzo is a great alternative that adds more fiber and nutrients without changing the flavor significantly.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use crumbled goat cheese or a plant-based feta alternative if you prefer a dairy-free option that still offers a similar texture.

How do I make this salad vegan?

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

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas can be great additions for extra protein while keeping it light and delicious.

How long does this salad keep?

The salad lasts about 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad is not only refreshing but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it with various vegetables and proteins to suit your taste preferences. Whether served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Try it today!