Description

This Healthy Easy Orzo Lemon Salad shines with bright flavors from fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and zesty lemon, making it an ideal choice for a quick, healthy meal or a delightful side at your next gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups uncooked orzo
1 red bell pepper chopped
2 stalks celery diced
1 small red onion
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
sea salt to taste
cracked black pepper to taste
juice and zest of 1 lemon

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until al dente, typically around 7 minutes depending on the package instructions.
Drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water until cool. Shake off excess water to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
While the orzo cooks, chop the red bell pepper, dice the celery and onion, and roughly chop the parsley. Zest and juice the lemon.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, chopped vegetables, feta, and parsley. Pour in the olive oil, lemon juice, and zest. Season with sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste. Gently toss until evenly coated.
Serve immediately at room temperature, or chill for 30–60 minutes to enhance the flavors. If the salad firms up in the fridge, give it a quick stir and add a drizzle of olive oil if needed.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding other vegetables like cucumber or cherry tomatoes.
Feel free to customize by adding grilled chicken or other protein for a more filling dish.
This salad can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 220
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 230mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 10mg