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Orzo Salad with Pesto

Zesty Orzo Salad with Pesto for a Vibrant Summer Feast

Enjoy a refreshing Orzo Salad with Pesto, perfect for summer gatherings!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups Orzo substitute with ditalini for variety
  • 1 cup Basil Pesto homemade or store-bought
  • 2 cups Arugula can be swapped for spinach or baby kale
  • 1 cup Grape or Cherry Tomatoes diced bell peppers can be used for a different taste
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Pearls replace with feta cheese for extra tang
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion shallots or green onions offer milder alternatives
  • 2 tablespoons Balsamic Glaze make your own reduction or use plain balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup Toasted Pine Nuts walnuts or sunflower seeds are great substitutes

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp Knife
  • large mixing bowl
  • Spatula or large spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to package directions, typically about 8 minutes, until al dente. Drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it quickly with cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. While the orzo is cooling, take a cutting board and a sharp knife to halve the grape tomatoes. Then, thinly slice the red onion.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, basil pesto, arugula, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and sliced red onion. Toss everything together gently using a spatula or large spoon.
  4. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the top and drizzle balsamic glaze generously. Give it one final toss to blend the ingredients.
  5. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Dish out generous portions into bowls and enjoy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Rinse the orzo under cold water after boiling to prevent mushiness. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Prepare a few hours before serving for optimal taste, and store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

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