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Summer Orzo Pasta Salad

Zesty Summer Orzo Pasta Salad for Bright, Fresh Flavors

This Summer Orzo Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish packed with fresh vegetables and a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo, uncooked Provides a tender and light base for the salad.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper, diced Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1 medium Orange Bell Pepper, diced Enhances taste and visual appeal.
  • 1 small Red Onion, diced Provides sharpness and color.
  • 1 cup Cucumber, diced Adds crunch and refreshing taste.
  • 1.5 cups Corn, fresh or frozen Contributes sweetness and texture.
  • 1 cup Tomatoes, diced Introduces freshness and juiciness.
  • 0.25 cup Basil, chopped Offers a herbaceous note.
  • 0.25 cup Green Onion, chopped Adds a mild onion flavor.
  • Parmesan Cheese, for serving Provides a savory finish.
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
  • 0.25 cup Olive oil Gives richness.
  • 1 lemon Lemon juice and zest Provides acidity and brightness.
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning Enhances flavor complexity.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard Helps to emulsify the dressing.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste Balances flavors.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Adds depth of flavor.

Equipment

  • Medium Pot
  • large mixing bowl
  • Small Bowl
  • spatula
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a medium pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 cup of uncooked orzo and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced red and orange bell peppers, red onion, cucumber, corn, and tomatoes. Fold in chopped basil and green onion.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, the juice and zest of one lemon, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add the drained orzo to the vegetable mixture. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Serve immediately with Parmesan cheese or chill for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For the best flavor, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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