Charred Peach Orzo Picnic Salad
Toasty orzo, caramelized peaches, crisp zucchini, and feta make a bright side that travels beautifully.
Prep: 15 · Cook: 15 · Total: 30 · Serves: 6 · Difficulty: Easy · Rating: 4.8/5 (88 reviews)
INSPIRED BY
This original side pairs the smoky sweetness of grilled summer fruit with the fresh herbs and pasta of a market salad.
Story
Casey loves a side that can move from the patio table to the picnic blanket without losing its charm. The peaches get a little skillet color, the orzo catches every drop of lemon dressing, and feta brings the salty finish. It is bright enough for hot weather but sturdy enough to make leftovers worth chasing. Keep the bowl loose and colorful, then let the season do the talking.
By Casey
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry orzo
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 ripe peaches, cut into wedges
- 1 small zucchini, cut into half-moons
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 3 ounces crumbled feta
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the orzo in well-salted water until just tender, then drain and toss with one tablespoon olive oil.
- Whisk the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a large serving bowl.
- Heat a wide skillet over medium-high heat and sear the peach wedges for 2 minutes per side until marked.
- Add the zucchini to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes until crisp-tender and lightly charred.
- Add the warm orzo, peaches, zucchini, and basil to the dressing and toss gently.
- Fold in the feta, taste for seasoning, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Chef Tips
- Choose peaches that are ripe but still firm enough to hold their shape in the skillet.
- Do not crowd the pan or the peaches will steam instead of char.
- Toss the orzo while warm so it absorbs the lemon dressing.
- Pack the feta separately if transporting the salad for a long picnic.
Cook's Notes
- **Orzo:** Cook it just past al dente because it firms as it cools.
- **Peaches:** Firm ripe fruit chars cleanly and will not collapse when tossed.
- **Zucchini:** Keep the half-moons thick enough to stay crisp.
- **Serving:** Taste again at room temperature and adjust lemon or salt before serving.