Orzo and Cucumber Salad

I think I may have found my new "go to" pot luck contribution! Saying that, if you are coming to a potluck which I am also attending, find a new dish! Ok, but in all seriousness, this was bright and summery and so good. The recipe is from Real Simple. It is quick and easy. I made this on Friday night in preparation for a potluck on Saturday (for our CSA - Henry Got Crops). I knew I would not have a minute to spare on Saturday, and I easily knocked this out on Friday.

The one thing I learned about pasta that I will share with you, is that for pasta salads, its really important that you rinse your pasta as soon as it is done with cold water. Really rinse it well!!! This prevents the individual pieces from sticking and makes a much better dish.

Orzo and Cucumber Salad

adapted (not much) from Real Simple

serves 8

4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

4 tablespoons olive oil

kosher salt and black pepper

1 box orzo 

1 English cucumber, chopped into 1/2" pieces

6 scallions, thinly sliced (including a good portion of the green part)

1/4-1/2 cup chopped fresh mint depending on taste

Cook the orzo according to the package directions. Drain, run under cold water to cool, and shake well to remove the excess water. In a medium bowl, toss the orzo with the cucumber, scallions, mint, lemon juice, toil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.