Description
A refreshing and light Lemon Orzo Salad with grilled chicken, fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber tossed in a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. Perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo and Chicken
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 oz)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
Dressing
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to boil and add the orzo pasta. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the orzo and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- Grill the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.
- Prepare the vegetables: Chop the fresh spinach, dice the cucumber, and halve the cherry tomatoes to get them ready for the salad.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil until well combined.
- Combine the salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled orzo, chopped spinach, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and sliced grilled chicken. Pour the lemon-olive oil dressing over the salad and toss everything together thoroughly to coat evenly.
- Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately for a fresh taste, or cover and chill it in the refrigerator for about an hour to allow the flavors to meld before serving cold.
Notes
- To save time, you can cook the orzo and grill the chicken simultaneously.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in the dressing.
- Chilling the salad before serving enhances the flavor, but it can also be enjoyed warm.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken or replace it with grilled tofu or chickpeas.
