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Summer Corn Orzo Salad recipe

Summer Corn Orzo Salad

Chef Enzo, an Italian-American cuisine expert from Eat Every Slice, smiling while enjoying a plate of homemade pasta garnished with fresh basil.Enzo R.
A refreshing summer salad featuring orzo pasta, fresh corn, and a zesty lemon herb dressing.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot for cooking orzo
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large
  • 1 Whisk

Ingredients
  

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 2 cups fresh corn kernels from about 2 ears of corn
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cucumber diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped

Lemon Herb Dressing

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo, corn, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, basil, and parsley.
  • Pour the lemon herb dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently until well combined.
  • Allow the salad to rest for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Serving

  • Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with additional herbs if desired.

Storage

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use the freshest corn for the best taste. Chill the salad before serving for enhanced flavor. Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute quinoa for a gluten-free option. Add avocado for creaminess. How to Serve: Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Storage & Freshness: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the salad a day in advance and store in the fridge; add dressing just before serving.
Keyword corn salad, picnic side dish, summer salad