Gordon Ramsay Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe

This fresh and vibrant orzo pasta salad is inspired by the bold, confident flavours you would expect from Gordon Ramsay. The texture is light yet satisfying, with tender orzo coated in a zesty lemon dressing and lifted by herbs and crisp vegetables. It is an easy, stress-free dish that suits confident beginners and seasoned cooks alike. From start to finish, it takes about 25 minutes, making it ideal for relaxed lunches or simple entertaining.

Ingredients

For the Orzo Salad

• 250 g orzo pasta
• 1 small cucumber, finely diced
• 200 g cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small red onion, very finely chopped
• 80 g feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped

For the Lemon Dressing

• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Finely grated zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 small garlic clove, crushed
• Sea salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make Gordon Ramsay Orzo Pasta Salad

• Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pan of well-salted water to the boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the packet instructions until just tender. Drain thoroughly, then spread the pasta out on a tray to cool slightly so it does not overcook.
• Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, crushed garlic, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning so it is bright and well balanced.
• Assemble the Salad: Place the warm orzo in a large mixing bowl. Add the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and basil. Pour over the dressing and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
• Finish and Serve: Once the salad has cooled to room temperature, fold through the crumbled feta. Check the seasoning again and add a little extra lemon juice or pepper if needed before serving.

Tips for Best Results

How do I stop orzo from becoming sticky?

Drain it well and spread it out while warm. A quick drizzle of olive oil helps keep the grains separate as they cool.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance, but add the feta and fresh herbs just before serving for the best flavour and texture.

What vegetables work well as swaps?

Roasted peppers, olives, or blanched green beans all work beautifully without overpowering the dressing.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish
• Add to a summer buffet or picnic spread
• Enjoy on its own as a light lunch

Storage

Room Temperature

Keep out for no more than 2 hours, especially in warm weather.

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

This salad is not suitable for freezing, as the vegetables and feta will lose their texture.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 360 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Sodium: 420 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.

FAQs

Gordon Ramsay Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe

Recipe by Alex TurnerCourse: SaladCuisine: MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

Fresh and zesty orzo pasta salad with lemon dressing, herbs, vegetables, and feta. A light yet satisfying dish perfect for lunches and entertaining.

Ingredients

• 250 g orzo pasta

• 1 small cucumber, diced

• 200 g cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 small red onion, finely chopped

• 80 g feta cheese, crumbled

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 garlic clove, crushed

• Salt and black pepper

Directions

• Cook the orzo in salted boiling water until just tender. Drain well and cool slightly.
• Whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
• Combine orzo with vegetables and herbs in a large bowl.
• Pour over dressing and toss gently to coat.
• Fold through feta, adjust seasoning, and serve.

Notes

• Spread the orzo out after cooking to prevent sticking.
• Add feta just before serving for best texture.
• Keep refrigerated and bring to room temperature before eating.