I can’t wait to share this Watermelon Feta Orzo Salad with Lemon and Basil recipe! It’s a refreshing mix of sweet watermelon and salty feta, making it a great choice for warm days or any casual get-together.
This recipe addresses the need for light summer meals, offers a refreshing contrast of flavors, and serves as a great side for barbecues.
You know, summer can be a tricky time for meals. I often need something light that won’t weigh me down, especially when it’s super hot outside. This salad checks all the boxes, giving me a nourishing option that works for everyone. Plus, it takes just 25 minutes to whip up!
And the best part? You can throw this salad together quickly in just 15 minutes of prep and another 10 for cooking the orzo. It’s an easy recipe to customize, so you can add more of your favorite veggies or herbs if you want.
If you need another fun and fresh dish to try, this salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or shrimp. If you want more ideas, check out this Vibrant Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Refreshing Texture , The combination of juicy watermelon and creamy feta creates a delightful contrast that makes every bite feel light and satisfying.
- Bright Flavor , Sweet watermelon meets tangy lemon and savory feta, resulting in a flavor profile that’s both exciting and refreshing, perfect for summer meals.
- Quick Prep , Whipping up this salad takes hardly any time, making it an easy choice for last-minute gatherings or busy weeknight dinners.
- Easy Storage , Leftovers store well in the fridge for a couple of days, so you can enjoy this tasty salad even after the initial meal.
Ingredient Notes
- Orzo: This tiny pasta is the base of our salad, soaking up all the yummy flavors. Go for a good quality one, as it makes a difference in texture.
- Seedless Watermelon: The star of the show! It’s sweet and juicy, brightening up each bite. Pick a ripe one that feels heavy for its size.
- Feta Cheese: Adds that tangy, creamy kick we crave. I’m all about Greek feta for its rich flavor, but you can swap it for goat cheese if you’d like.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: A splash of acidity to wake everything up! Always use fresh juice rather than bottled for that zesty brightness that’s unbeatable.
- Fresh Basil: Brings in a lovely herbaceous note! Use fresh, fragrant basil leaves and give them a little chop for maximum flavor. Dried basil won’t cut it here.
Keep scrolling to the recipe card below for the full printable recipe!
Recipe Tips
- If orzo becomes mushy, aim to cook it for only eight minutes or until it’s firm. It will soften as it cools.
- When the salad tastes overly sweet, a dash of salt or ground black pepper can balance the fruity flavors nicely.
- If watermelon contributes too much juice, opting for a firmer variety and draining excess liquid will keep the salad fresh.
- For added crunch, consider mixing in diced cucumber or finely chopped red onions; both add texture and a refreshing bite.
- If you want more flavor, choosing Greek feta can enhance the taste of the salad, making it wonderfully savory.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this watermelon feta orzo salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Include it at picnics alongside dips and appetizers for variety.
- This salad can also be used as a base for grain bowls or wraps. It pairs well with roasted vegetables and other fresh ingredients.
- Top the salad with extra basil for added freshness and color. Consider a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an additional layer of flavor.
Storage Guidelines
- To keep your watermelon feta orzo salad fresh, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Consume within this period.
- Freezing: Wrap servings tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Serving Suggestion: Before serving, gently mix the salad to restore texture and enhance flavor after thawing or refrigerating.
Recipe Variations
- You can use quinoa instead of orzo for a gluten-free option. This swap will add a nuttier flavor and a bit of extra protein.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper and a teaspoon of honey to the dressing for a sweet and spicy kick that complements the salad beautifully.
- Either swap the feta for goat cheese to add a tangy touch, or use ricotta for a creamier texture in your salad.
- If you’re preparing this for a larger group, scale up the recipe by doubling the orzo to 3 cups and increasing watermelon to 10 cups.
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Watermelon Feta Orzo Salad with Lemon and Basil
A refreshing salad combining sweet watermelon, creamy feta, and zesty lemon, perfect for summer gatherings.
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Large Bowl
- Small bowl
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups dry orzo uncooked
- Salt to taste
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon zest
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 ½ Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp honey
- 5 cups cubed seedless watermelon diced into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes
- 6 oz feta cheese crumbled
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Start by boiling water in a large saucepan, adding a sprinkle of salt. Once it is bubbling, toss in the 1 1/2 cups of dry orzo and stir. Cook until the orzo is tender yet still firm to the bite, about 8 minutes. Avoid cooking it too long, or you will end up with mushy pasta. Drain and cool the orzo.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 Tbsp fresh lemon zest, 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 1/2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, and 2 tsp honey until well blended. The mixture should smell bright and citrusy.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooled orzo with 5 cups cubed watermelon and 6 oz crumbled feta. Stir gently to combine, enjoying the contrasting colors and textures. Be careful not to over-stir, or you will break the watermelon apart too much.
- Drizzle the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Taste the salad, as too much dressing can overwhelm the natural flavors.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped basil over the top and give it one last gentle toss to incorporate.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. It is ready when it is cool, and the watermelon is not leaking juice. If it becomes too watery, drain excess liquid before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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