Lunches , Pastas & noodles , Main dishes , Sides , Vegetarian , Vegetarian dishes

Lemony orzo salad with feta & chickpeas

Name: Lemony orzo salad with feta & chickpeas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Yield: 6 to 8
Cuisine: Québécoise
Ingredients: 340 g orzo, cooked al dente and rinsed with cold water; 1 pint (551 ml) sun-dried cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 can (540 ml) chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1 generous handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 good handful of fresh arugula; 200 g feta cheese, crumbled; Zest of 2 lemons; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup English cucumber, diced; 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup sliced almonds; 1/3 cup olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 tbsp white balsamic vinegar; 1 tbsp maple syrup; 1/2 tsp dried parsley; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

Preparation 20 min
Cooking 10 min
Servings 6 to 8
Freezing I do not suggest

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🥗 Lemony Orzo Salad with Feta & Chickpeas: A Fresh Take on Pasta Salad and Summer Vibes

Looking for new orzo salad ideas that are easy, bold, and perfect for entertaining? This lemony orzo salad with feta and chickpeas is the fresh, colorful twist you’ve been craving. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, planning a weekend dinner with friends, or just need a pasta salad easy enough to whip up in advance — this one checks all the boxes.

We’re talking al dente orzo loaded with juicy cherry tomatoes, protein-packed chickpeas, feta crumbles, sharp parmesan, peppery arugula, fresh parsley, crisp red onion, cucumber, and crunchy sliced almonds. What ties it all together? A zesty homemade pasta with salad dressing featuring olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. It’s bright, vibrant, and seriously addictive.

This dish isn’t just an easy side — it’s also one of those pasta salad and protein combos that can easily become a full meal. Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or soft-boiled eggs and you’ve got dinner in the bag. Plus, it holds beautifully in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep or potlucks. In short? It’s a show-stopping pasta salad easy enough for a weeknight and fancy enough for the weekend.

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Fireworks in your mouth!

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✅ Tips & Tricks for an Even More Flavorful Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta and Chickpeas!

🍋 Perfect al dente orzo
• Don’t overcook your pasta! Slightly firm orzo holds the dressing better and keeps a nice texture, even after a few hours in the fridge.

🧄 Zingy dressing, always
• Don’t be shy with seasoning. The lemon-garlic-salt-pepper combo brings the salad to life. Want a twist? Add a touch of Dijon mustard.

🌿 Fresh herbs = max freshness
• Toss in parsley and arugula just before serving to keep their crunch and aroma. You can swap or mix in mint or basil too!

🥒 Crisp cucumber trick
• To avoid a soggy salad, chop the cucumber right before serving or pat it dry with a paper towel.

🧀 Feta goes in last
• Crumble the feta over the salad once it’s cooled to keep that creamy texture and picture-perfect look.

🔥 Want the deluxe version?
• Add grilled shrimp, lemony chicken, or salmon to turn this salad into a killer weekend meal!

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Lemony orzo salad with feta & chickpeas

340 g orzo, cooked al dente and rinsed with cold water
1 pint (551 ml) sun-dried cherry tomatoes, halved
1 can (540 ml) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 generous handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 good handful of fresh arugula
200 g feta cheese, crumbled
Zest of 2 lemons
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup English cucumber, diced
1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup sliced almonds

Vinaigrette

1/3 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tbsp white balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp maple syrup
1/2 tsp dried parsley
1/2 tsp dried oregano
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

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Preparation

Place the cooked and cooled orzo in a large bowl. Add the cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, parsley, arugula, feta, lemon zest, almonds, Parmesan, red onion, and cucumber. Season generously with salt and pepper, then toss to combine.
In a small bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients. Season with salt and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Frequently asked questions

Absolutely. Try baby spinach, thinly sliced kale, or even fresh basil for a different twist.

Of course! Crumbled goat cheese, grilled halloumi cubes, or even shaved parmesan all work great.

Yes! Tortellini, Israeli couscous, or short pasta like farfalle are all delicious alternatives.

Our sommeliers suggest

Kalogria Assyrtiko 2023

Grèce

🍷 Kalogria Assyrtiko 2023 & Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta and Chickpeas: a sunny duo! This crisp white wine, bursting with citrus notes and sharp minerality, enhances the lemon in the dressing, balances the salty feta, and complements the crunch of the veggies and chickpeas. A fresh, vibrant, and totally summery pairing! See the product

Blanche de Charlevoix, 5%

Microbrasserie Charlevoix

🍺 La Blanche de Charlevoix & Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta and Chickpeas: a match made in sunshine! With its citrusy notes and soft spice, this refreshing white beer mirrors the lemony brightness of the salad and cleanses the palate between bites. A light, elegant pairing that turns your summer meal into something truly special. See the product

*Pairings are suggestions. If you can't find the exact product, substitute for the same type of beer or varietal blend from the same region. Feel free to ask a consultant for help!