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Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon

Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon for a Fresh Spring Delight

Prepare a vibrant Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette for a refreshing spring dish. Perfect for side or light meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo pasta Barilla is a reliable choice.
  • 1 bunch Asparagus Choose slightly thicker spears for ideal texture.
  • 1/2 cup Sun-dried tomatoes Opt for those packed in oil for best flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Red onion Slice thinly to balance flavors.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh basil Adjust amount to match your taste.
  • 1 cup Feta cheese Fresh crumbles for richer flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon zest Essential for a brighter, zesty taste.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Olive oil Extra Light Tasting Olive Oil is ideal.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Softens vinaigrette’s acidity.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced for robust flavor.
  • Salt To taste.
  • Black pepper To taste.

Equipment

  • Pot
  • Skillet
  • large mixing bowl
  • measuring cup
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the orzo. Cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool.
  2. Sauté Asparagus: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped asparagus and cook 5-8 minutes until tender and vibrant. Season with salt and pepper and slice on a bias into 1-inch pieces.
  3. Prepare Vinaigrette: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
  4. Toss Salad: In a bowl, combine cooled orzo, sautéed asparagus, sun-dried tomatoes, red onion, basil, and feta. Fold in vinaigrette, adjusting seasoning as necessary.
  5. Serve or Chill: Serve immediately garnished with feta and basil, or chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 6gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Customizable with seasonal veggies or proteins like grilled chicken. Chill the salad for optimal flavor before serving.

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