Description
Lemon Basil Greek Orzo Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that bursts with vibrant flavors, making it an ideal choice for any gathering. With zesty lemon and aromatic basil harmonizing beautifully, this salad offers a taste experience that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days or last-minute get-togethers. Whether served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, it pairs well with various proteins or can stand alone as a light main dish. This crowd-pleaser serves up to ten people, making it the ultimate side for barbecues, picnics, and family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked orzo
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium sweet Vidalia onion, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 15-ounce can garbanzo beans
- 5 ounces fresh spinach
- 1/2 English cucumber, diced
- 1 pound sliced cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup fresh basil, chiffonade
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 6 ounces crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Cook the orzo according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onions in olive oil until translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Add diced zucchini and garbanzo beans; season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and oregano. Cook for another 3 minutes until zucchini softens.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Combine the onion mixture with the orzo in a large pot.
- Add spinach and stir until wilted (about 2 minutes).
- Mix in cucumbers, tomatoes, basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Gently fold in crumbled feta cheese.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; drizzle with additional olive oil if desired.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: For added flavor, allow the salad to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. Feel free to experiment by adding other veggies like bell peppers or olives.