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–+ servings
Summer Orzo Pasta Salad

Bright and Zesty Summer Orzo Pasta Salad Perfect for Gatherings

This Summer Orzo Pasta Salad is a vivid mix of fresh veggies and zesty dressing, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo feel free to substitute with any small pasta
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper can swap this for yellow or orange
  • 1 medium Orange Bell Pepper increase the red for a sweeter profile
  • 1 small Red Onion can use green onions for a milder flavor
  • 1 large Cucumber or zucchini/yellow squash for a change
  • 1 cup Corn fresh or frozen; peas can be an alternative
  • 1 cup Tomatoes cherry tomatoes can replace them for sweetness
  • 1 cup Basil fresh; parsley is a substitute in a pinch
  • 1 cup Green Onions omit if desired or use chives
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese for serving; use nutritional yeast for vegan
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil avocado oil is a tasty alternative
  • 1 large Lemon Juice and Zest lime juice can replace lemon
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning a mix of dried herbs can substitute
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard can switch to whole grain mustard
  • 1 clove Garlic fresh or garlic powder as an alternative

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • Small Bowl
  • whisk
  • large spoon

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: In a bowl, combine diced red and orange bell peppers, chopped red onion, cucumber, corn, and tomatoes. Add basil and green onions, toss gently.
  3. Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice and zest, Dijon mustard, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Combine the Salad: Add cooled orzo to the vegetable bowl, pour the vinaigrette over and toss until well combined.
  5. Serve or Store: Serve immediately with grated Parmesan or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust acidity and add protein as desired. Store leftovers in the fridge.

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