Lemon Herb Orzo – Fresh Mediterranean Side Dish is a bright and zesty side that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This dish features tender orzo pasta tossed with fresh lemon juice, fragrant herbs, and a touch of olive oil for a refreshing Mediterranean flavor. Its light texture and tangy taste make it a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare with pantry staples. Pair it with my Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken Thighs for a complete and satisfying meal.
Why You'll Love Lemon Herb Orzo – Fresh Mediterranean Side Dish That’s Easy & Delicious
Discover the easy Lemon Herb Orzo – Fresh Mediterranean Side Dish recipe. Bright, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. Quick, homemade, and family-friendly!
- Bright, fresh Mediterranean flavors in every bite.
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 40 minutes.
- Uses pantry staples with fresh herbs for an affordable, beginner-friendly dish.
- Perfectly versatile to pair with chicken, seafood, or vegetables.
Ingredients for Lemon Herb Orzo – Fresh Mediterranean Side Dish That’s Easy & Delicious
Orzo pasta: Choose regular orzo made from durum wheat. Gluten-free orzo alternatives can be used but cooking times may vary.Fresh herbs: Parsley and dill provide authentic Mediterranean flavor. Substitute with fresh basil or oregano if desired.
- Orzo pasta: Choose regular orzo made from durum wheat. Gluten-free orzo alternatives can be used but cooking times may vary.
- Fresh herbs: Parsley and dill provide authentic Mediterranean flavor. Substitute with fresh basil or oregano if desired.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for Lemon Herb Orzo – Fresh Mediterranean Side Dish That’s Easy & Delicious are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Lemon Herb Orzo – Fresh Mediterranean Side Dish That’s Easy & Delicious
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Cook the orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes) until tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Prepare the lemon herb dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Toss and combine: Transfer the cooked orzo to a large bowl. Pour the lemon herb dressing over the orzo, then add chopped parsley and dill. Toss to combine everything evenly.
Expert Tips for Lemon Herb Orzo – Fresh Mediterranean Side Dish That’s Easy & Delicious
- Cook orzo just until al dente to prevent mushy texture when combined with dressing.
- Fresh herbs make a big difference — add them last to keep brightness.
- Toast pine nuts or almonds lightly to add crunch and depth.
Lemon Herb Orzo – Fresh Mediterranean Side Dish That’s Easy & Delicious
Discover the easy Lemon Herb Orzo – Fresh Mediterranean Side Dish recipe. Bright, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. Quick, homemade, and family-friendly!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill or basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds
- Lemon zest for extra brightness
- Extra parsley for garnish
Instructions
How to Make Lemon Herb Orzo – Fresh Mediterranean Side Dish
- Cook the orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes) until tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid.
- Prepare the lemon herb dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Toss and combine: Transfer the cooked orzo to a large bowl. Pour the lemon herb dressing over the orzo, then add chopped parsley and dill. Toss to combine everything evenly.
- Add finishing touches: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and toasted nuts on top if desired. Garnish with extra lemon zest and parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition (per serving)
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended (texture changes).
- Serve/Reheat: Best chilled or at room temperature.
Lemon Herb Orzo – Fresh Mediterranean Side Dish That’s Easy & Delicious FAQs
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep and can be made a few hours ahead. Keep it chilled and add fresh herbs or lemon juice before serving for best flavor.
Small pasta shapes like couscous, Israeli couscous, or small shells work well as substitutes if orzo isn't available.
Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep texture.
Dry orzo may be from overcooking or not enough dressing; add a little olive oil or broth when mixing. Soggy orzo usually results from overcooking or sitting too long with dressing; cook al dente and toss just before serving.
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Before You Go
If you try this Lemon Herb Orzo – Fresh Mediterranean Side Dish That’s Easy & Delicious, I’d love for you to leave a rating or share how you customized it.