Description
A refreshing Watermelon Feta Orzo Salad with bright lemon and basil flavors, perfect chilled for summer.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups dry orzo
- Salt to taste
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon zest
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 1/2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp honey
- 5 cups cubed seedless watermelon
- 6 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Start by boiling some water in a saucepan. Add the orzo and cook until it is just al dente, which typically takes about 9 minutes. The pasta should be slightly firm to the bite. Once done, drain it without rinsing to maintain the starch for better texture.
- Mix Watermelon & Feta: While the orzo cooks, chop the ripe watermelon into cubes and crumble the feta cheese. The sweetness of the watermelon should highlight the salty feta. Ensure the use of fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Add Lemon & Basil: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the watermelon and feta. Toss in the chopped basil leaves gently to avoid breaking the watermelon too much. This step intensifies the salad’s freshness.
- Combine Orzo & Ingredients: Once the orzo has cooled slightly, mix it with the watermelon and feta mixture until evenly distributed. Be cautious not to mix when the orzo is too hot, as it may wilt the basil.
- Chill & Serve: Place the salad in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together for best results. Before serving, taste to check if it needs extra lemon juice or salt.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Expert Tips: If the orzo becomes too soft, cook it for exactly 9 minutes for a firmer texture. If the salad seems overly sweet, add a1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice to balance out the flavors. For the best texture, mix in the watermelon just before serving to ensure it remains crisp and juicy. For added vibrancy, incorporate freshly chopped herbs such as basil or mint. For gluten allergies, confirm the orzo is labeled gluten-free.
- Reheating Instructions: This salad is best served cold and does not require reheating.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve as a side dish for grilled meats or pair with crusty bread and a light white wine. Use it as a refreshing starter before a summer meal.
- Recipe Variations: Add diced cucumber for an extra crunch or incorporate arugula for a peppery bite. You can also swap basil for mint if you prefer a different herb flavor.
- Ingredient Notes: Select a ripe watermelon for the best flavor and consider alternatives like goat cheese or dairy-free feta if desired. Be mindful that flavor may change with different types of cheese.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 274mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 22mg