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Asparagus & Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad

Bright Asparagus & Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad for Spring Bliss

A refreshing Asparagus & Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad bursting with vibrant flavors, perfect for sunny afternoons and spring gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups Cooked Orzo Pasta Use gluten-free pasta for gluten-free version.
  • 1 bunch Asparagus Remove woody ends and blanch.
  • 4 cups Fresh Arugula Can substitute with baby spinach.
  • 1 small Red Onion Chopped finely; can substitute green onions.
  • 1/3 cup Pine Nuts Toasted; slivered almonds can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Enhances dish's citrus notes.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper Essential for seasoning.
For the Parmesan Lemon Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1 clove Garlic Minced.
  • 1 small Shallot Minced.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Herbs (Dill, Basil, Chives) Chopped; mix your favorite.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Omit for dairy-free.

Equipment

  • Medium pot
  • Large mixing bowl
  • mason jar

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Blanch the Asparagus: Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch asparagus for about 3 minutes, then transfer to ice water.
  2. Cook the Orzo: Cook orzo pasta in salted water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooled orzo, blanched asparagus, arugula, red onion, and pine nuts.
  4. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a mason jar, combine olive oil, mustard, garlic, shallot, sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, herbs, and Parmesan. Shake well.
  5. Dress the Salad: Pour vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss gently. Let rest for 10 minutes.
  6. Finish and Serve: Zest lemons over salad, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 30IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Use the freshest ingredients for best flavor. Dress salad just before serving to maintain crispness.

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