Barefoot Contessa Orzo Salad With Cucumber – Fresh, Tangy, and Perfect for Summer

Ina Garten’s Orzo Salad with Cucumber is a refreshing, light, and vibrant dish that combines tender orzo pasta with crisp cucumber, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing. This salad is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a cool side dish for grilled meats and seafood. It’s simple, flavorful, and easy to prepare in advance.

What Is Barefoot Contessa Orzo Salad With Cucumber?

This is a chilled pasta salad made from orzo pasta and fresh cucumber, tossed with a lemony olive oil dressing, and enhanced with herbs like dill, parsley, or mint. It often includes feta cheese for a tangy touch and can be served as a side or a light main course. The clean flavors and crunchy texture make it ideal for warm-weather meals.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
• Ina Garten’s Roasted Vegetable Lasagna
• Barefoot Contessa Filet of Beef with Mustard Sauce

Reasons to Try Barefoot Contessa Orzo Salad With Cucumber

• Light and refreshing, perfect for summer
• Quick and easy to prepare
• Pairs beautifully with grilled dishes
• Can be made ahead for gatherings or meal prep
• Customizable with herbs, cheese, or added protein
• Ideal for picnics or outdoor dining
• A beautiful balance of texture and flavor

Ingredients Needed to Make Barefoot Contessa Orzo Salad With Cucumber

• 1½ cups orzo pasta
• 1 English cucumber, diced (peeled if preferred)
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (or parsley/mint)
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: cherry tomatoes, olives, or red onion slices

Instructions to Prepare Barefoot Contessa Orzo Salad With Cucumber

Step 1: Cook the orzo

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Toss with vegetables and herbs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, diced cucumber, scallions, and fresh dill. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to combine.

Step 4: Add feta and finish

Fold in the crumbled feta cheese and mix again. Adjust seasoning as needed. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve cold

Serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with extra dill or lemon zest, if desired.

What Goes Well With Barefoot Contessa Orzo Salad With Cucumber

• Grilled chicken or shrimp – Adds protein while keeping it light
• Lamb chops or kebabs – Complements the herbs and citrus
• Falafel or veggie skewers – Ideal for a vegetarian pairing
• Pita bread or hummus – Rounds out a Mediterranean-style meal
• Smoked salmon or grilled fish – Adds a savory, elegant touch
• Fresh fruit platter – Balances with natural sweetness
• Dry white wine or sparkling water with lemon – Refreshing accompaniment

Key Tips for Making Barefoot Contessa Orzo Salad With Cucumber

• Use English cucumber for fewer seeds – Keeps the salad crisp
• Cool orzo before mixing – Prevents wilting fresh ingredients
• Fresh lemon juice is essential – Adds brightness and depth
• Let it chill for flavor melding – Improves taste over time
• Toss again before serving – Redistributes dressing evenly
• Choose good quality feta – Adds creaminess and tang
• Double the batch for large groups – It’s always a hit

Creative Variations of Barefoot Contessa Orzo Salad With Cucumber

• Add cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers – For color and flavor
• Include Kalamata olives – For a briny, Mediterranean twist
• Mix in chopped mint or parsley – Adds a refreshing herbal note
• Swap feta with goat cheese or mozzarella balls – Creamy alternatives
• Stir in cooked chickpeas – Boosts protein for a light meal
• Top with toasted pine nuts or almonds – Adds crunch and richness
• Use whole wheat orzo – A healthier version with more fiber

Storage Guidelines for Barefoot Contessa Orzo Salad With Cucumber

• Refrigerate in airtight container – Stays fresh for 3–4 days
• Stir before serving leftovers – Dressing may settle at the bottom
• Store feta separately if prepping ahead – Keeps texture intact
• Avoid freezing – Pasta and cucumber texture will degrade
• Label container with date – Helps with meal planning

Reheating Tips for Barefoot Contessa Orzo Salad With Cucumber

• Best served cold or at room temperature – No need to reheat
• If needed, bring to room temperature before serving – Enhances flavor
• Don’t microwave – Cucumber and herbs can become soggy
• Add a drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice – Refreshes leftovers
• Toss again just before serving – Ensures even distribution

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 240
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg

A light and nutrient-packed salad that’s both filling and refreshing.

FAQs

Can I make orzo salad with cucumber ahead of time?

Yes, orzo salad with cucumber is ideal for making in advance. Chill it for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld, and stir before serving.

Do you rinse orzo after cooking for salad?

Yes, rinsing orzo with cold water stops the cooking process and prevents it from becoming sticky, making it perfect for cold pasta salads.

What kind of cucumber is best for orzo salad?

English cucumbers are preferred because they have thin skin, mild flavor, and fewer seeds, resulting in a better texture and taste.

How long does orzo salad last in the fridge?

Orzo salad with cucumber will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Wrapping Up

Barefoot Contessa’s Orzo Salad With Cucumber is the definition of effortless summer cooking. Simple, flavorful, and endlessly customizable, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again—whether it’s for a picnic, barbecue, or just a light lunch at home.

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