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Asparagus Orzo Salad

Bright and Zesty Asparagus Orzo Salad for Spring Vibes

This Asparagus Orzo Salad captures the freshness of Spring with vibrant colors and a zesty lemon-parmesan vinaigrette.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Orzo Pasta Substitute with gluten-free orzo if needed.
  • 1 bunch Asparagus Choose thicker spears for better texture.
  • 1 cup Peas Frozen peas are convenient.
  • 1/4 cup Mint Can be swapped with basil or other herbs.
  • 1/4 cup Parsley Can omit or replace with another herb.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 2 medium Lemons Use zest and juice.
  • 1 medium Shallot Green onions can be a substitute.
  • 1 clove Garlic Mash with salt for smoother texture.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Adjust sweetness to taste.
  • 1/3 cup Olive Oil Different oils will change the flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast is a vegan alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Sea salt or table salt can be used.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Medium bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the orzo by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and cool slightly.
  2. Prepare asparagus by trimming tough ends and slicing into 1/4 inch coins.
  3. Make the vinaigrette by whisking together shallot, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Blanch asparagus and peas for 1 minute in the boiling water with orzo, then drain.
  5. Cool and rinse asparagus and peas with orzo under cold water.
  6. Combine orzo, asparagus, peas, mint, parsley, and vinaigrette in a large bowl. Serve immediately or refrigerate briefly.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Taste the vinaigrette prior to serving for balance. Use fresh seasonal ingredients for optimal flavor. Combine ingredients just before serving to maintain texture.

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