Grilled Corn Zucchini Orzo Salad
This bright, fresh, Mediterranean-style salad combines grilled sweet corn, charred zucchini, and tender orzo pasta, all tossed in a zesty lemon–herb dressing with feta and fresh basil.
⏱ Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
🧾 Ingredients
For the Salad
1 cup orzo pasta
2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thick rounds or half-moons
2 ears corn (or 1½ cups kernels)
2 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
Salt & pepper, to taste
½ cup crumbled fete
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
¼ cup parsley, chopped
Optional extras:
Cherry tomatoes (½ cup, halved)
Red onion (2 tbsp finely chopped)
Toasted pine nuts or almonds
For the Lemon-Herb Dressing
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp oregano
Salt & pepper to taste
🥣 Instructions
Step 1 — Cook the Orzo
1. Boil orzo in salted water according to package instructions.
2. Drain, rinse lightly to prevent sticking, and let cool.
Step 2 — Grill the Corn & Zucchini
1. Brush zucchini slices and corn with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill on a grill pan or outdoor grill:
Zucchini: 3–4 minutes per side until charred.
Corn: 8–10 minutes, rotating until golden and smoky.
3. Cut kernels off the cob once cool enough to handle.
4. Slice zucchini into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3 — Make the Dressing
Whisk together:
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Honey
- Dijon
- Garlic
- Oregano
- Salt & pepper
Step 4 — Assemble the Salad
1. In a large bowl combine cooked orzo, grilled zucchini, and corn.
2. Add feta, basil, and parsley.
3. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
4. Taste and adjust lemon, salt, or herbs.
🍽 Serve With
Grilled chicken
Lemon garlic shrimp
Baked salmon
Falafel
Mediterranean mezze platters
💡 Tips for Best Results
Don’t overcook orzo — keep it al dente for best texture.
Add feta at the end so it stays crumbly.
Toss salad while slightly warm so flavors absorb better.
Add avocado for creaminess.
For extra flavor, add smoked paprika or chili flakes.
❓ frequently Asked Questions FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Add the feta and herbs just before serving for freshness.
2. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — skip feta or use dairy-free feta.
3. Can I use frozen corn?
Absolutely — sauté or roast it until golden.
4. Can I serve it cold?
Yes, it tastes amazing cold or at room temperature.
🥗 Nutritional Information
Calories: 310
Protein: 9g
Carbs: 42g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 4g