A refreshing, Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad made with tender orzo, crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and a bright lemon dressing.
1 ½ cups dry orzo pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
½ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
⅓ cup red onion, finely diced
¼ cup Kalamata-style olives, sliced
½ cup crumbled feta-style cheese
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cook the orzo pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and cool completely.
Prepare all vegetables and herbs while the pasta cools.
Combine orzo, vegetables, olives, parsley, and dill in a large bowl.
Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper.
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently.
Fold in the feta-style cheese and chill before serving.
Adjust lemon and salt to taste before serving.
For best flavor, chill for at least 20 minutes before serving.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.