Go Back
+ servings
Orzo Kale Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Orzo Kale Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A Refreshing Delight

A vibrant Orzo Kale Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette that's healthy and perfect for meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 37 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Dry Orzo Substitute with gluten-free orzo for a gluten-free option.
  • 2 cups Packed Spinach, Chopped Use baby spinach for a more tender texture.
  • 2 cups Packed Kale, Chopped Lacinato or curly kale works well.
  • 1/2 cup Shaved Parmesan Use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
  • 1/4 cup Pumpkin Seeds Substitute with sunflower seeds if desired.
  • 1/2 cup Marinated Olives, Sliced Any variety works, such as Kalamata or green olives.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Use extra virgin for enhanced flavor.
  • 3 tbsp Juice from 1 Lemon Fresh is best.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Zest
  • 1 clove Garlic Clove, Crushed Can be omitted for a milder taste.
  • 1 tbsp Honey Substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option.
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard Omit for a simpler vinaigrette.
  • Salt & Pepper Essential for seasoning.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Step 1: Cook the Orzo. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the dry orzo and cook according to package instructions, typically around 8–12 minutes, until it's al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base. In a large mixing bowl, add chopped kale and spinach. Toss them together gently to combine.
  3. Step 3: Mix in the Toppings. Add the cooled orzo, shaved Parmesan, pumpkin seeds, and sliced marinated olives to the greens. Gently fold everything together.
  4. Step 4: Make the Lemon Vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, crushed garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  5. Step 5: Combine the Salad and Vinaigrette. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss everything together.
  6. Step 6: Serve and Store. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This salad keeps well! Make it a day in advance to let the flavors develop. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!