Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad

This Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad is packed with summer vegetables, creamy feta chees, fresh basil, and it’s tossed in a bright, refreshing lemon vinaigrette! This orzo pasta salad recipe is packed with the best summer veggies, creamy feta cheese, fresh basil and a tangy, bright lemon dressing that brings it all together. It’s an easy summer side dish that’s perfect for barbecues and picnics!

Author: Flavor the Moments

Meal Type: Peanuts Free

Cuisine: American

Difficulty: MEDIUM

Prep. Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 174 kcal per serving

Ingredients

8 ounces - orzo pasta
1 - zucchini
1 ear - corn
1 tbsp - olive oil
a pinch of salt
⅛ tsp - black pepper
8 ounces - cherry tomatoes
½ cup - feta cheese
½ cup - fresh basil
½ cup - extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup - fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons - dijon mustard
1 clove - garlic
¼ tsp - salt
⅛ tsp - black pepper
½ cup - extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup - fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons - dijon mustard
1 clove - garlic
¼ tsp - salt
⅛ tsp - black pepper

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Place in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Once drained, place in a large serving bowl.
Preheat the grill to medium high. Toss the corn and zucchini the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning every 3 minutes or until well charred on each side. Grill the zucchini for 3-4 minutes per side or until tender and well charred. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
When the vegetables are cool enough to handle, place the corn on a cutting board and place on its side. Using a sharp knife, cut the kernels from the top down on one side, then turn and continue until all of the kernels have been removed. Place the corn in the bowl with the pasta. Chop the zucchini and place in the bowl as well.
Place olive oil, lemon juice, dijon mustard, garlic, salt and pepper in a small bowl.
Whisk well until emulsified. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
To make lemon vinaigrette in a jar, place all ingredients in a jar, secure the lid and shake well until emulsified.
Add the cherry tomatoes, feta cheese and basil to the orzo pasta. Toss with the desired amount of lemon vinaigrette and toss well to combine. Serve and enjoy!

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