Lemon Dill Orzo

This simple, refreshing pasta salad is perfect for summer. The orzo is cooked al dente and tossed with fresh dill, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. It's a light and flavorful side dish that's perfect for picnics, potlucks, or barbecues.

Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that's often used in soups and salads. It's a good source of complex carbohydrates and fiber. Dill is a herb that has a bright, citrusy flavor. It's often used in Scandinavian and Eastern European cuisine. Parsley is a herb that has a mild, slightly peppery flavor. It's often used as a garnish or in salads. Lemon juice is a great way to add brightness and acidity to a dish. It's also a good source of vitamin C. Olive oil is a healthy fat that can help to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Parmesan cheese is a hard, grating cheese that has a nutty, salty flavor. It's often used in Italian dishes.

Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the orzo according to the package directions.
2. Drain the orzo and transfer it to a large bowl.
3. Add the dill, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the orzo.
4. Toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Why It Works

• The combination of orzo, dill, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese creates a flavorful and refreshing salad.
• The orzo is cooked al dente, which gives it a slightly chewy texture.
• The fresh herbs add brightness and freshness to the salad.
• The lemon juice adds acidity and brightness to the salad.
• The olive oil adds richness and flavor to the salad.
• The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the salad.