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Spring Orzo Pasta Salad

Delicious Spring Orzo Pasta Salad for Vibrant Warm Days

This fresh Spring Orzo Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish perfect for warm days, featuring seasonal vegetables and a creamy feta dressing.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta whole wheat or gluten-free options available
  • 1 cup Asparagus blanched for vibrant color and crunch
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas fresh peas can be used if available
  • 2 cups Fresh Arugula toss in just before serving
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese goat cheese makes a delightful alternative
For the Vinaigrette
  • 2 tablespoons Shallots impacts mild onion flavor
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil high-quality extra-virgin recommended
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice fresh juice is preferred
  • to taste Salt adjust to taste
  • to taste Pepper adjust to taste

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Medium Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • colander

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped shallots and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat, then whisk in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Allow this shallot vinaigrette to cool while you prepare the other ingredients for the salad.
    Spring Orzo Pasta Salad
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add 1 cup of orzo and cook for 7-9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool.
    Spring Orzo Pasta Salad
  3. In the same skillet, drizzle an additional tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Sauté chopped asparagus for 3-4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
    Spring Orzo Pasta Salad
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, sautéed asparagus, and 1 cup of frozen peas. Pour the shallot vinaigrette over the mixture and gently toss until well incorporated.
    Spring Orzo Pasta Salad
  5. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Fold in 2 cups of fresh arugula just before serving. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
    Spring Orzo Pasta Salad

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This salad is perfect for potlucks, and can be customized with seasonal vegetables and dietary preferences. Best enjoyed fresh, but can be made ahead and stored properly.

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