This Summer Orzo Pasta Salad makes a delicious side dish, especially during the warmer months! The combination of grain free orzo, veggies, lemon and lime juice, black beans and seasoning pairs perfectly with just about any meal. This recipe is grain free, gluten free, dairy free and has a paleo friendly option.

Summer Orzo Pasta Salad (Grain Free & Dairy Free)

When I think of summer, I automatically think of barbeques with friends and family! This Summer Orzo Pasta Salad is the perfect recipe to bring to your next gathering. Not only is it so easy to make, but it also tastes delicious! The grain free orzo is combined with summer veggies for a light and refreshing side dish.

Ingredients:

Grain Free Orzo
Tomatoes
Red onion
Cucumber
Shredded carrots
Black beans
Salt
Pepper
Cumin
Cilantro
Lemon juice
Lime juice

How to Make Summer Orzo Pasta Salad

To make this Summer Orzo Pasta Salad, start by following the directions on the back of the orzo box. While the water is boiling/orzo is cooking prep the veggies. Cut the tomatoes, red onion and cucumbers and add to a medium sized bowl. Rinse off the black beans and add them to the bowl along with the shredded carrots. When the orzo is finished cooking, drain the water and add the orzo to the bowl. Add in the salt, pepper, cumin, cilantro, lemon juice and lime juice and stir until combined. This recipe is best when served fresh.

How to Store Orzo Salad

Since this recipe is gluten free and grain free, storing the orzo salad is a little different from your average recipe. I would suggest serving this recipe fresh as it tastes the best. However, if you have left overs or need to store it before serving, you can keep it in an air tight container in the refrigerator. The orzo will most likely be a little drier than it would fresh but you can always add a little more lemon juice before serving.

What to Serve with Orzo Pasta Salad

The options are endless when it comes to main dishes that pair well with this Summer Orzo Pasta Salad. My favorite thing to make with this recipe is BBQ Chicken, it’s a match made in heaven! You could also make this with burgers on the grill, pork chops or kabobs.

Is this Recipe Paleo Friendly?

As is, this Summer Orzo Pasta Salad is not paleo friendly due to the black beans. However, there is a simple solution if you are following a paleo diet yet still want to enjoy this recipe…simply skip the black beans! This recipe will taste just as great without the beans.

More Summer Recipes:

This Summer Orzo Pasta Salad has quickly become a family favorite in my house. I hope you and your family enjoy it as much as we do! Make sure to tag me on Instagram @theglutenfreegrasses so I can see what recipes you are making.

-Kelsey