Arugula Lemon Orzo Salad

This Lemon Arugula Orzo Salad is a bright, zesty pasta salad packed with fresh greens, tender orzo, protein-packed chickpeas, crumbled feta cheese and a simple lemon dressing. Reliable for spring and summer meals!

If you are looking for a light, refreshing side dish that still feels satisfying, this Lemon Arugula Orzo Salad is it! One of the favorite summer salads with bright citrus flavor, peppery greens, protein-packed and perfectly cooked orzo all tossed together in the most satisfying lemon dijon dressing. This orzo salad makes the reliable side dish paired with grilled chicken or salmo

Yes! This lemon orzo pasta salad recipe is reliable for meal prep. You can prepare it several hours ahead or even the day before. If making it well in advance, consider adding the arugula just before serving so it stays fresh and crisp.

What goes in

• 1 cup dry orzo pasta
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 3 cups baby arugula
• 1 (15 ounces) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, leaves torn
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

How it comes together

1. Cook the orzo. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
2. Toast the pine nuts. While the orzo cooks, add the pine nuts to a dry skillet over a moderate burner. Toast for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until lightly golden and fragrant. Watch carefully so they do not burn.
3. Make the dressing. In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
4. Assemble the salad. Use a wide bowl, combine the cooked orzo, chickpeas, arugula, fresh basil, feta cheese, and toasted pine nuts. Drizzle the lemon dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Serve and enjoy. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together even more before serving. Enjoy!