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Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Zesty Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Bliss

This Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Uncategorized
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Dry Orzo Pasta Substitute with other small pasta shapes if desired.
  • 1 pound Asparagus Choose thicker stalks for better bite and flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Julienned and packed in oil to save prep time.
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion Thinly sliced.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Chopped, adjust quantity based on your taste.
  • 1/2 cup Feta Cheese Crumble your own block for the best taste.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1 lemon Lemon Zest Use fresh for best impact.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Extra Light Tasting Olive Oil recommended.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Adjust to your sweetness preference.
  • 1 clove Garlic Minced.
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper Adjust to bring out all the flavors.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • measuring cup

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup of dry orzo pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.
  2. Sauté the Asparagus: Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of sliced asparagus and sauté for 5-8 minutes until bright green and tender yet crisp. Season with salt and pepper. Cut on a diagonal into 1-inch pieces.
  3. Make the Vinaigrette: In a large measuring cup, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, juice of one lemon, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 minced garlic clove. Add salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until well combined.
  4. Combine the Ingredients: In the bowl with cooled orzo, fold in sautéed asparagus, 1/2 cup of julienned sun-dried tomatoes, 1/4 cup of thinly sliced red onion, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil, and 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese. Pour the vinaigrette over and toss gently.
  5. Serve: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving. Toss again before serving and garnish with additional feta and basil if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 7gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and allow the salad to chill before serving for improved taste.

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