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Orzo Salad with Asparagus

This Orzo Salad with Asparagus is a bright and refreshing dish made with tender orzo pasta, crisp asparagus, sweet corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect as a cold orzo pasta salad for picnics, potlucks, meal prep, and backyard gatherings, this flavorful salad is one of the best summer salads recipes to enjoy all season long. Whether you're looking for light pasta salads, creative corn recipes, a refreshing lemon orzo salad, or a delicious summer orzo salad, this easy recipe delivers fresh flavor in every bite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients
  

  • For the Salad
  • 1 pound orzo pasta
  • 1 bunch asparagus trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • For the Lemon Dressing
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook orzo according to package directions until al dente.
  2. Drain and rinse the orzo under cold water. Set aside to cool completely.
  3. Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add asparagus and cook for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp.
  4. Transfer asparagus immediately to a bowl of ice water. Drain and pat dry.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooled orzo, asparagus, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  7. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
  8. Gently fold in the feta cheese.
  9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  10. Toss lightly before serving and garnish with extra parsley or feta if desired.

Notes

  • Fresh asparagus provides the best texture and flavor.
  • Grilled corn adds a delicious smoky touch.
  • Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Refresh leftovers with an extra squeeze of lemon juice before serving.