Chilled Lemon Orzo Bowl

As summer approaches, the craving for light, refreshing meals intensifies. One dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of summer is the Chilled Lemon Orzo Bowl. This vibrant dish not only delights the palate but also offers a medley of flavors and textures that make it an ideal choice for warm-weather dining. The bright, zesty notes of fresh lemon combined with the tender, chewy orzo pasta create a refreshing experience that rejuvenates the senses.

As summer heats up, cool down with a refreshing Chilled Lemon Orzo Bowl. This vibrant dish combines zesty lemon, tender orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red bell pepper for a burst of delicious flavor. Ideal for picnics and family gatherings, it's easy to prepare and packed with nutritional benefits. Discover how to make this light and tasty dish step-by-step, perfect for savoring on warm days. Join the summer culinary fun!

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Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

Juice and zest of 1 large lemon

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium cucumber, diced

1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a kick

Instructions

Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes until well combined. This will be the dressing for your salad.

Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until all the ingredients are well coated.

Add Feta Cheese: Gently fold in the feta cheese, being careful not to mash it. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill. Serve cold, garnished with additional parsley and a lemon wedge if desired.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings