Looking for a refreshing dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion? Dive into the delightful world of our Orzo Arugula Salad with Lemon Thyme! This Italian-inspired recipe is not only quick to prepare—taking just 25 minutes from start to finish—but it also combines the nutty goodness of orzo pasta with the peppery bite of fresh arugula and the zesty brightness of lemon. Whether you’re planning a light lunch, a vibrant side for dinner, or a picnic treat, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends. Ready to elevate your meal with a burst of freshness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups arugula
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of orzo pasta, 2 cups of fresh arugula, 1/4 cup of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a medium-sized pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Add the orzo pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the orzo is cooking, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well combined.
- Once the orzo is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, arugula, and the lemon-thyme dressing. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the arugula is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and give it another gentle toss to incorporate the cheese.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes for a chilled salad.
- This Orzo Arugula Salad with Lemon Thyme can be served as a light main dish or as a side salad alongside your favorite protein. Enjoy!
Tips
- Cook the Orzo Perfectly: To achieve the ideal al dente texture, make sure to stir the orzo occasionally while it cooks. This prevents it from sticking together and ensures even cooking.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh arugula and freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. The freshness really enhances the overall taste of the salad.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or olives for extra color and flavor. You can also substitute the Parmesan with feta cheese for a different twist.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared ahead of time. Just dress it right before serving to keep the arugula crisp and fresh. It can also be refrigerated for up to 30 minutes to serve as a chilled salad.
- Experiment with Herbs: If you don’t have fresh thyme, consider using other herbs like basil or parsley to give your salad a unique flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
