Best 3 Orzo And Zucchini Salad Recipes

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**Orzo and Zucchini Salad: A Refreshing and Flavorful Summer Dish**

Orzo and zucchini salad is a delightful summer dish that combines the flavors of fresh zucchini, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs. This vibrant salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it a perfect side dish for grilled meats, fish, or tofu. With its colorful appearance and refreshing taste, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends.

The recipes included in this article provide step-by-step instructions for creating three variations of this classic salad. The first recipe is a simple yet flavorful version that combines orzo, zucchini, feta cheese, red onion, and fresh herbs. The second recipe adds a zesty twist with the addition of lemon and mint, creating a refreshing and herbaceous salad. The third recipe is a more substantial option that includes roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and a tangy dressing, making it a complete meal in itself.

Whether you are looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a hearty and satisfying main course, these orzo and zucchini salad recipes have something for everyone. With their vibrant flavors and colorful appearance, these salads are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

CORN AND ZUCCHINI ORZO SALAD



Corn and Zucchini Orzo Salad image

This summer-fresh big-bath salad of corn and zucchini orzo makes enough salad for two meals. Save 4 cups to use in our Corn, Zucchini, and Pasta Frittata.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Salad Recipes

Time 35m

Number Of Ingredients 11

6 medium zucchini, diced
Coarse salt and ground pepper
1 pound orzo
4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
5 cups corn kernels (from 6 ears corn)
1 small red onion, chopped
1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 3 lemons)
1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
4 ounces feta, crumbled (2 cups)

Steps:

  • Place zucchini in a colander and toss with salt. Place colander in sink and let sit 20 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large pot of boiling salted water, cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking; transfer to a large bowl.
  • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium. Add corn and cook, stirring occasionally, until just tender, 4 minutes. Add to pasta along with zucchini, 3 tablespoons oil, onion, jalapeno, and lemon zest and juice; season with salt and pepper. Stir in basil and feta. Transfer 4 cups salad to an airtight container; refrigerate for up to 2 days and use to make the Corn, Zucchini, and Pasta Frittata.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 330 g, Fat 10 g, Fiber 5 g, Protein 12 g, SaturatedFat 3 g

LEMON ORZO SALAD WITH ZUCCHINI AND FRESH HERBS



Lemon Orzo Salad With Zucchini And Fresh Herbs image

This is one of those quick lunch salads that tastes great. If you are tired of sandwiches, try this different luncheon salad. Serve with pita chips.

Provided by Miss Annie

Categories     One Dish Meal

Time 30m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 cup orzo pasta (rice-shaped pasta)
2 small zucchini, diced (about 3/4 pound)
1 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup finely chopped of fresh mint
1 grated lemon, rind of
3 tablespoons lemon juice
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
salt and pepper

Steps:

  • Cook the orzo until tender but firm.
  • Drain in a colander; rinse under cold water to cool, and drain well.
  • Mix the orzo, zucchini, parsley, and mint in a large bowl with a large spoon.
  • Whisk the remaining ingredients in a small bowl.
  • Pour over the salad and mix with a large spoon.

ORZO AND ZUCCHINI SALAD



Orzo and Zucchini Salad image

This fresh-tasting, make-ahead side dish was created with casual outdoor dining in mind. Best at room temperature.

Provided by CALISPICEGIRL

Categories     Salad     Vegetable Salad Recipes     Zucchini Salad Recipes

Time 1h30m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 cup orzo
4 teaspoons olive oil, divided
2 zucchinis, quartered lengthwise and thinly sliced
coarse salt and ground black pepper to taste
½ cup torn fresh basil
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar, or to taste
1 clove garlic, chopped

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook orzo in the boiling water, stirring occasionally until cooked through but firm to the bite, about 11 minutes. Drain and spread onto a rimmed baking sheet to cool completely.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; cook and stir zucchini and garlic in the hot oil until slightly tender, 4 to 6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Mix orzo, zucchini mixture, basil, vinegar, and remaining 1 teaspoon olive oil in a bowl; season with salt and pepper. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate to blend flavors, 1 hour to 1 day. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 235.8 calories, Carbohydrate 39.6 g, Fat 5.6 g, Fiber 2.3 g, Protein 7.7 g, SaturatedFat 0.9 g, Sodium 9.2 mg, Sugar 3.1 g

Tips:

  • Use a variety of zucchini. Different types of zucchini can provide different flavors and textures to your salad. For example, yellow zucchini is sweeter than green zucchini, and pattypan squash has a mild, nutty flavor.
  • Don't overcook the zucchini. Zucchini is best when it is still slightly crisp. If you overcook it, it will become mushy and lose its flavor.
  • Use a good quality olive oil. Olive oil is an important ingredient in this salad, so it's worth investing in a good one. Look for an olive oil that is extra virgin and has a fruity flavor.
  • Add some fresh herbs. Fresh herbs can brighten up the flavor of this salad. Try adding some basil, oregano, or parsley.
  • Serve the salad immediately. This salad is best served immediately after it is made. The zucchini will start to lose its crispness if it sits out for too long.

Conclusion:

Orzo and zucchini salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer. It's easy to make and can be served as a side dish or main course. With its vibrant colors and delicious flavors, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

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