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Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Vibrant Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Bliss

A refreshing Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette combining seasonal produce, perfect for spring picnics.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta any brand works well
  • 2 cups asparagus opt for thicker stalks
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes preferably oil-packed
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 handful fresh basil adjust to taste
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled for best flavor
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest fresh zest preferred
  • to taste cracked black pepper
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup olive oil extra light tasting preferred
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice for optimal tartness
  • 1 teaspoon honey adjust to taste
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • to taste salt

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • small bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dry orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 8–10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped asparagus, sauté for 5–8 minutes until vibrant green and fork-tender. Season with salt and pepper, then cool before cutting into 1-inch pieces.
  3. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.
  4. In the bowl with cooled orzo, add sautéed asparagus, sun-dried tomatoes, red onion, basil, feta, and lemon zest. Pour over the vinaigrette and toss to combine.
  5. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour before serving. Optionally, top with extra feta and basil for presentation.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 9gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Serve alongside grilled meats or pack for lunch. Consider pairing with a Cucumber Salad Sandwich.

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