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Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Delicious Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Magic

Enjoy a refreshing Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, packed with vibrant flavors and health-conscious ingredients.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Dry Orzo Pasta Any short pasta can substitute if needed.
  • 1 bunch Asparagus Opt for thicker asparagus for better bite.
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (packed in oil) Fresh cherry tomatoes can substitute.
  • 1 small Red Onion Slice thin for mild flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Can substitute with parsley or mint.
  • 1/2 cup Feta Cheese Use block feta for better flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Essential for invigorating flavor.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil Choose a lighter olive oil.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Can be omitted for sugar-free option.
  • 1 clove Garlic (minced) Use fresh for vibrant flavor.
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup of dry orzo pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and cool slightly.
  2. Sauté the Asparagus: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add asparagus and sauté for 5-8 minutes until tender and bright green. Season with salt and pepper. Slice the asparagus on the bias into 1-inch pieces.
  3. Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, juice of 1 lemon, 1 tablespoon of honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo, sautéed asparagus, sun-dried tomatoes, sliced red onion, fresh basil, crumbled feta cheese, and lemon zest. Pour vinaigrette over and gently toss until evenly coated.
  5. Serve or Chill: Serve immediately for optimal freshness, garnished with extra feta and basil, or chill for 30-60 minutes for melded flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Opt for fresh vegetables and allow the salad to rest for enhanced flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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