Go Back
+ servings
Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Fresh Asparagus Orzo Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette

This Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a vibrant, easy-to-make dish perfect for any gathering or nutritious lunch.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta gluten-free if needed
  • 1 bunch Asparagus choose thicker stalks
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes packed in oil
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil adjust to taste
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese fresh recommended
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest fresh for optimal taste
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil extra light works best
  • 1 tablespoon Honey
  • 1 clove Garlic freshly minced
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • small mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add 1 cup of orzo and cook according to package directions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.
  2. In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped asparagus for 5-8 minutes until bright green and tender. Season with salt and pepper, then cut into 1-inch pieces.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of olive oil, lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of honey, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, sautéed asparagus, sun-dried tomatoes, red onion, basil, feta, and lemon zest. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad, toss lightly, and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 9gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For the best flavor, use fresh ingredients and avoid overcooking the asparagus. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!