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Summer Orzo Pasta Salad

Refreshing Summer Orzo Pasta Salad for Vibrant Gatherings

Enjoy a vibrant Summer Orzo Pasta Salad, bursting with fresh vegetables and a tangy lemon vinaigrette, perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups Orzo Substitute with other small pasta shapes for variety.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Can be substituted with yellow or green peppers.
  • 1 medium Orange Bell Pepper Any bell pepper variety makes a great substitute.
  • 1 small Red Onion Swap with green onions for a milder flavor.
  • 1 medium Cucumber Use English cucumbers or preferred variety for optimal crunch.
  • 1 cup Corn Canned corn can be used for quick preparation.
  • 1 cup Cherry or Grape Tomatoes Consider for bite-sized bliss.
  • 1 cup Basil Feel free to substitute with parsley.
  • 2 stalks Green Onion Chives work well as a substitute.
For the Dressing
  • 1/3 cup Olive Oil Feel free to use avocado or canola oil.
  • 1 large Lemon Use juice and zest for brightness.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Individual herbs like oregano and thyme are alternatives.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can be a substitute.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Use garlic powder if fresh isn't available.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Optional garnish for richness.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Directions
  1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook for about 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. Prep the Vegetables: Dice the red and orange bell peppers, red onion, cucumber, and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Add corn, chopped basil, and sliced green onions, then fold in the cooled orzo.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, juice and zest of lemon, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine Everything: Pour the dressing over the orzo and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
  5. Serve or Chill: Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with Parmesan cheese or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For the best flavor, use seasonal vegetables and allow the salad to rest in the fridge after mixing to let flavors develop.

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