Description
Herb-Lovers Lemony Orzo Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that bursts with vibrant flavors from fresh herbs and zesty citrus. This versatile salad can be enjoyed as a light main course or a colorful side, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any gathering. Its unique combination of orzo pasta, chickpeas, and an array of herbs ensures that each bite is both satisfying and nutritious. Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, it’s easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Enjoy the bright flavors of summer all year round with this herb-packed recipe!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces uncooked orzo
- 2 large handfuls fresh baby spinach, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 English cucumber, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, diced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
- Juice and zest of 1-2 lemons
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
Instructions
- 1. Cook the orzo in salted boiling water until al dente as per package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo with spinach, chickpeas, cucumber, red onion, basil, mint, lemon juice and zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well to combine.
- 3. Taste the salad and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 5mg