Bright And Fresh Orzo Pasta Salad With Lemon Basil Dressing Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a refreshing pasta salad to brighten your day. 

This orzo pasta salad with lemon basil dressing is light, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for sunny afternoons or busy weeknights, this dish is versatile enough to suit any occasion.

With tender orzo pasta, crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a tangy lemon basil dressing, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Best of all, it’s simple to make, taking just 15 minutes from start to finish.

Ready to add this quick and delicious dish to your repertoire? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Recipe

This recipe has so much going for it that we’re confident you’ll want to make it again and again. Here’s why it’s such a hit:

1. Quick and Convenient: It’s ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for hectic weekdays or last-minute gatherings.
2. Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and a great opportunity to get kids involved in the kitchen.
3. Wholesome and Fresh: Packed with fresh veggies, greens, and a homemade dressing, it’s a healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
4. Vegan-Friendly: This version is 100% vegan, but it’s easy to customize based on your preferences.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores well in the fridge for up to four days, making it a great option for make-ahead lunches or potlucks.

What You’ll Need for This Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe

One of the best things about this salad is its simplicity—you probably have most of the ingredients in your kitchen already!

For the Salad

• Orzo pasta: 1 cup (or substitute with another small pasta like pearl couscous).
• Cucumbers: 1 cup, diced (for crunch and freshness).
• Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved (for a burst of sweetness).
• Arugula or baby spinach: 1 cup (for a fresh, green touch).

For the Lemon Basil Dressing

• Lemon juice: 3 tablespoons (freshly squeezed for maximum flavor).
• Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon (adds a bright, citrusy aroma).
• Fresh basil: ½ cup, loosely packed (key to the dressing’s bold flavor).
• Garlic: 1 clove (adjust to your taste).
• Olive oil: 3 tablespoons (extra virgin preferred for richness).
• Salt and black pepper: To taste (to enhance all the other flavors).

How to Make Orzo Pasta Salad With Lemon Basil Dressing

This dish comes together effortlessly in just three steps.

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions, typically 7–10 minutes. For the best texture, aim for al dente.

Once cooked, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the orzo is cooking, make the vibrant lemon basil dressing:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, tasting as you go to ensure the perfect balance of flavors. Add a tablespoon of water if needed to achieve a pourable consistency.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and arugula (or spinach). Pour the lemon basil dressing over the top and toss gently until everything is well coated.

Serve immediately for a fresh, summery meal, or refrigerate for later—it’s delicious either way!

Tips for Success

Even simple recipes like this one have little tricks that can take them to the next level:

• Watch Your Orzo: Orzo cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. Al dente is best for both texture and flavor.
• Go Easy on the Garlic: A little raw garlic goes a long way, so start small and adjust to your taste.
• Salt the Pasta Water: This step is essential for adding flavor to the orzo and ensuring a well-seasoned final dish.
• Serve Fresh: While this salad keeps well, it’s at its absolute best when freshly made.

Creative Variations

This orzo pasta salad is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to get creative with these ideas:

• Add Creaminess: Blend half an avocado into the dressing for a richer, creamier texture.
• Try New Greens: Substitute arugula with kale, mixed greens, or even shredded romaine for a different flavor and texture.
• Toss in More Veggies: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or blanched asparagus are all excellent additions.
• Boost the Protein: Add crispy tofu, chickpeas, or white beans for a heartier salad.
• Include a Crunch: Toasted nuts like almonds or seeds such as sunflower seeds add a delightful crunch.

What to Serve With This Orzo Pasta Salad

This salad is delicious on its own but also pairs beautifully with other dishes for a complete meal. Here are some ideas:

• Crispy Tofu: Adds protein and a satisfying contrast in texture.
• Grilled Veggies: Zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus complement the salad’s fresh flavors.
• Vegan Garlic Bread: A comforting side to soak up the extra dressing.
• Black Bean Burgers: Perfect for a summery plant-based feast.

Storage Tips

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, it stores well in the fridge for up to four days:

• Store Separately: Keep the dressing separate and toss it in just before serving to maintain the best texture.
• Keep It Airtight: Use an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent odors from transferring into the fridge.
• Enjoy Cold or Room Temperature: This salad is equally delicious, chilled or at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics or potlucks.

Final Thoughts

This orzo pasta salad with lemon basil dressing is the ultimate summer recipe. It’s light, flavorful, and versatile enough to fit any occasion. 

Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal, picnic, or as part of your weekly meal prep, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to time and time again.

Ready to try it for yourself? Gather your ingredients and get started—you’ll love how easy and delicious this dish is!