Summery Orzo Salad with Corn

This summery orzo salad is the perfect dish for a light and refreshing meal. The orzo is cooked al dente and tossed with fresh corn kernels, basil, feta cheese, and red onion. A simple dressing made with olive oil, vinegar, and mustard brings all the flavors together. This salad is perfect for a summer picnic or barbecue.

Orzo, a small pasta shape that resembles rice, is a blank canvas for a variety of flavors. In this salad, the orzo is cooked al dente and tossed with fresh corn kernels, basil, feta cheese, and red onion. A simple dressing made with olive oil, vinegar, and mustard brings all the flavors together. This salad is the perfect dish for a light and refreshing meal on a hot summer day.

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

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups fresh corn kernels
• 1 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the orzo according to package directions.
2. Combine the orzo, corn, basil, feta, and red onion in a large bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, and mustard.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Why It Works

• The orzo is cooked al dente, which gives it a slightly chewy texture.
• The fresh corn kernels add a sweetness to the salad.
• The basil adds a freshness to the salad.
• The feta cheese adds a salty and tangy flavor to the salad.
• The red onion adds a bit of crunch and spice to the salad.
• The simple dressing made with olive oil, vinegar, and mustard brings all the flavors together.