Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad: A Fresh and Creamy Delight

This Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad is a culinary journey that brings together delightful flavors and vibrant colors, making it not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes. Imagine creamy goat cheese melding with tender zucchini, while sweet peas add bursts of freshness and delight. Each bite is an explosion of flavors and textures, from the savory roasted garlic to the zesty lemon. It’s the perfect dish to brighten up your dinner table or to impress at a gathering where everyone is starved for something deliciously fresh and uniquely satisfying.

Every time I whip up this Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad, I’m reminded of warm summer evenings spent outdoors, laughing with friends and family. There’s something about the combination of heat from the oven and the bright, crisp tastes of fresh ingredients that makes any occasion feel a bit more special. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy dinner inside, this salad is a staple that promises unmatched flavor and an amazing experience.

Ingredients for Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad:

1/2 lb orzo – A short, rice-shaped pasta that gives the salad a hearty base; you can swap it for quinoa for a gluten-free option.

1 large zucchini, sliced – Adds a mild flavor and tender texture; selecting a firm zucchini with vibrant skin is best for maximum freshness.

2 large shallots, sliced – These provide a sweet, subtle onion flavor; pick shallots that are firm and without soft spots for the best taste.

1 cup frozen peas – Convenient and sweet, these peas add a pop of color and nutrition; no need to thaw; just toss them in frozen.

4 cloves garlic – When roasted, garlic becomes sweet and creamy, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

1/2 cup goat cheese – This creamy cheese provides a delicious tang; fresh goat cheese is preferable for a brighter taste.

1 lemon, juiced – Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish, adding a zesty kick; roll it on the countertop before juicing to release more juice.

2 tbsp lemon zest – Adds an aromatic burst of flavor; use a microplane for finely grating the zest without bitter pith.

1/4 cup olive oil – Extra-virgin olive oil adds richness and depth; a quality oil is key for enhancing flavors.

1 tsp salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust based on taste preference.

1 tsp pepper – Freshly cracked pepper adds just the right amount of warmth.

2 tbsp thyme – Fresh or dried thyme provides a subtle earthiness; taste before using to avoid overwhelming the dish.

How to Make Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat. This ensures that your vegetables roast evenly and develop that lovely caramelized flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchini and shallots with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Keep the skins on the garlic cloves and place them around the baking sheet with your veggies. Roast everything for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure they roast evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo
While the veggies are roasting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to package directions, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. With 5 minutes left of cooking time, toss in the frozen peas and let them cook alongside the pasta. Drain the mixture and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.

Step 4: Mix the Ingredients
Once the roasted vegetables are done, add them to the mixing bowl with the orzo and peas. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins, chop them finely and mix them in for that sweet garlic goodness.

Step 5: Add the Flavor
In the mixing bowl, drizzle in the remaining olive oil, add the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, thyme, and crumbled goat cheese. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the cheese is evenly distributed and begins to cream up with the warm ingredients.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Transfer this colorful and creamy Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad onto serving plates and enjoy immediately. It can also be refrigerated and served cold, making it perfect for meal prepping or making ahead for gatherings.

When you gather your loved ones around the table, they may just swoon over this delightful dish, and you might find yourself hailed as the culinary star of the evening! Enjoy every bite of this Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad, bursting with color and flavor.

Perfecting Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with your Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad, start by roasting the zucchini and shallots to enhance their flavors. While they roast, boil your orzo and peas simultaneously for efficiency.

Add Your Touch to Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad

Get creative with your Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad by adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Swap out the goat cheese for feta or try adding grilled chicken for extra protein.

Storing & Reheating Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad

For storing Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to retain the creamy texture.

To get that creamy, dreamy texture, let your roasted garlic cool slightly before squeezing it out of the skins. This infused flavor will elevate the entire dish.

Always taste your Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad as you mix in seasonings. Adjusting the salt and pepper before serving ensures the flavors are just right.

When cooking your orzo, don’t forget to add salt to the boiling water. It enhances the orzo’s flavor and makes the dish more delicious.

The first time I made this Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad, my friends couldn’t stop raving about the flavors. It became a staple at our summer BBQs!

FAQs About Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad

What is Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad?

Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad is a refreshing dish that combines the delightful flavors of roasted zucchini and shallots, sweet green peas, and creamy goat cheese all mixed in with tender orzo pasta. This salad is perfect for warm days as a side or main course and showcases a burst of color and taste that looks as good as it tastes. Added lemon juice and zest brighten the dish, making it a vibrant addition to any meal.

How can I customize my Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad?

Feel free to get creative! You can add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra layer of flavor. If you’d like to swap the goat cheese, feta cheese works wonderfully—offering a slightly tangy twist. Also, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein. This salad is incredibly versatile, allowing you to mix in whatever seasonal veggies you have on hand.

Can I make Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad in advance?

Yes, you can! This salad can be prepared a day ahead of serving. The flavors develop beautifully when they sit together, making it even more delicious. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy it. Just give it a good stir before serving to refresh the ingredients, and consider adding a touch more lemon juice for brightness.

How do I store leftover Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad?

After enjoying your Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will remain fresh for up to three days. When reheating, do it gently to preserve the creaminess of the cheese and the texture of the orzo. You can warm it in a small pan on low heat or microwave it for a quick and easy meal.

Conclusion for Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad

In conclusion, Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad is a delightful dish that offers both ease and elegance. From the roasted veggies to the creamy goat cheese, each bite is a burst of flavor that can elevate any meal. Remember, this salad is customizable and can be made ahead, making it perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this delicious salad today!

Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad

Zucchini, Pea & Goat Cheese Orzo Salad is a refreshing dish combining roasted veggies with creamy goat cheese and tender orzo.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 1/2 lb orzo
• 1 large zucchini, sliced
• 2 large shallots, sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 4 cloves garlic skin on
• 1/2 cup goat cheese
• 1 whole lemon, juiced
• 2 tbsp lemon zest
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 2 tbsp thyme

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• pot
• mixing bowl

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Mix 2 tbsp olive oil with the zucchini and shallots. Season with salt and pepper. Place garlic cloves around the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, mixing halfway through.
3. Boil water for the orzo and cook according to package directions. With 5 minutes left, add the frozen peas. Drain and add to a large bowl.
4. Add the zucchini and shallots to the bowl. Squeeze out the roasted garlic, chop finely, and add it to the bowl.
5. Add the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, thyme, and goat cheese. Mix together and serve!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to customize with fresh herbs and proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas. This dish is great for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

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