Zesty Orzo Pasta Salad

Hey there, fellow foodies! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you one of my favorite summer recipes that’s sure to add a burst of flavor to your seasonal get-togethers. This is a recipe that I recently took to a baby shower and a ptoluck, and so many reached out to me asking for the recipe.

If you’re looking to elevate your pasta salad game with a nontraditional twist, then my Zesty Orzo Pasta Salad is just what you need. With its vibrant combination of orzo, lemon, dill, and a host of fresh ingredients, this dish is perfect for those warm summer days when you crave something light, refreshing, and absolutely delicious. Plus, it’s a quick and easy crowd-pleasing recipe that takes minimal ingredients, thanks to using a popular store-bought vinaigrette.

Why Use Orzo Instead of Other Traditional Pasta Salad Noodles?

You might be wondering why orzo is the pasta of choice for this salad. Here are a few reasons why orzo stands out:

Texture and Size:

Orzo, which resembles large grains of rice, offers a delightful texture that traditional pasta shapes like elbows or rotini can’t match. Don’t worry, its still very filling and can feed a crowd. Its small size allows it to absorb the dressing more effectively, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor, making it the perfect base for this zesty pasta salad.

Versatility:

Orzo is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes beyond pasta salad, such as soups and pilafs. Its neutral taste allows it to blend seamlessly with a range of ingredients and dressings.

Visual Appeal:

The unique shape and size of orzo adds a sophisticated touch to your pasta salad. It’s a simple way to elevate the presentation of your dish, impressing your guests with minimal effort.

The Role of Fresh Ingredients in my Zesty Orzo Pasta Salad

Cherry Tomatoes:

Why Slice Cherry Tomatoes in Half for Pasta Salad?

Slicing cherry tomatoes in half for your pasta salad is a small step that makes a big difference. Here’s why:

• Flavor Distribution: Halved cherry tomatoes release their juices, which mix with the dressing and enhance the overall flavor of the salad. Whole tomatoes might not integrate as well, leaving pockets of blandness.
• Texture Balance: Slicing the tomatoes ensures they are easier to eat. Whole tomatoes can be too large, disrupting the texture balance of the pasta salad.
• Visual Appeal: Halved cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and a more elegant appearance to your salad. They also make the salad look more appetizing and well-prepared.

Tip: Slice your cherry tomatoes length-wise. I know this sounds odd, but I’ve found that it keeps the seed pockets intact.

Tip: Use a serrated knife to cut tomatoes. The texture of the serrated knife easily saws through the prtective skin of the tomatoes.

Tip: I prefer to cut my tomatoes one at a time, but I’m no stranger to being strapped for time. If you’re in a hurry, The Kitchn has a great tutorial on“How to Slice a Bunch of Cherry Tomatoes at Once”.

English Cucumber:

English cucumbers are a fantastic choice for pasta salads due to their crisp texture and mild flavor. They add a refreshing crunch without overpowering the other ingredients. Plus, their thin skin means you don’t need to peel them, saving you time and effort.

Feta Cheese:

Feta cheese brings a tangy, salty flavor that pairs beautifully with the fresh vegetables and zesty dressing. Its crumbly texture ensures it’s evenly distributed throughout the salad, adding little bursts of flavor in every bite.

Fresh Dill:

Dill adds a wonderful herbaceous note that vibes well with the lemon and basil vinaigrette. Its bright, slightly tangy flavor enhances the overall freshness of the salad, making it perfect for summer.

Lemon Zest:

Lemon zest is a key ingredient that shouldn’t be overlooked. It adds an intense lemony aroma and flavor that lemon juice alone can’t provide. It’s the secret ingredient that takes this salad from good to great.

Red Onion:

Red onion adds a pop of color and sharp taste that offsets the zestiness of the dressing. It also adds another layer of crunch to the pasta salad.

How to Make a Flavorful Pasta Salad

Creating a flavorful pasta salad is all about balancing textures, flavors, and freshness. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your Zesty Orzo Pasta Salad is a hit:

MISE EN PLACE

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s prep our ingredients. You’ll need:

Note: This recipe feeds 6-8 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb of uncooked Orzo pasta
• 1/2 a bottle (about 8 oz) of Newman’s Own Lemon Basil Vinaigrette (or your favorite ready-made vinaigrette)
• 1 pint of Cherry Tomatoes – Sliced in half
• 1 English Cucumber – diced
• 1/4 cup Red Onion – diced
• 10 oz of crumbled feta cheese
• 1 – 2 tablespoons of Fresh Dill – chopped, more if desired
• 1 tablespoon of Lemon Zest
• Salt and pepper to taste

NOW THAT WE HAVE EVERYTHING WE NEED LET’S GET STARTED!

Instructions:

1. Cook the Orzo: Start by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it al dente, so it retains a slight bite and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the other ingredients. Once cooked, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture for your salad.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, diced English cucumber, diced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, vinaigrette, lemon zest, and chopped dill. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
3. Season to Taste: Taste your pasta salad and add salt and pepper as needed. The feta cheese adds a nice salty tang, so be mindful not to over-salt.
4. Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let the pasta salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve cold, and enjoy the burst of fresh, zesty flavors!

Why Choose Ready-Made Lemon Basil Vinaigrette?

A ready-made dressing that delivers complex flavors without the need for multiple ingredients will save you time. For this recipe, I prefer to use Newman’s Own Lemon Basil Vinaigrette, which I keep as a staple dressing in my pantry. It is a fantastic choice for this pasta salad because it combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the aromatic flavor of basil. Plus, choosing a high-quality vinaigrette like Newman’s Own ensures you’re using a product made with wholesome ingredients.

Tips for the Perfect Summer Pasta Salad

Creating the perfect summer pasta salad goes beyond just following a recipe. Here are some tips to ensure your salad is a standout dish at your next event:

• Use Fresh Seasonal Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a significant difference in the flavor and texture of your salad. Whenever possible, I opt for locally grown produce.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the pasta al dente is crucial for maintaining the right texture. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and unappetizing when mixed with the dressing.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill before serving not only enhances the flavors but also ensures it’s refreshingly cool, which is ideal for hot summer days.
• Adjust Seasoning Before Serving: Taste the salad again before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes the flavors can mellow out after chilling, so a final tweak can make a big difference.

All in All

In conclusion, my Zesty Orzo Pasta Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer. By using orzo instead of traditional pasta shapes, you get a unique texture that absorbs the zesty dressing beautifully. The combination of cherry tomatoes, English cucumber, feta, dill, and lemon zest creates a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both light and satisfying.

I hope you enjoy making this salad as much as I do. It’s a wonderful addition to any summer meal, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick and easy lunch. Remember, the key to a great pasta salad is using fresh ingredients and balancing the flavors to create a dish that’s both visually appealing and delicious.

Cheers to enjoying the vibrant tastes of summer with this Zesty Orzo Pasta Salad!

More Cold Summer Dishes You’ll Enjoy

• Marinated Manchego Cheese
• Summer Farro Salad
• Fresh Marinated Tomatoes
• Arugula Salad with Peaches and Cornbread Croutons