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Fresh Spring Orzo Pasta Salad: Light, Bright, and Delicious

This Fresh Spring Orzo Pasta Salad captures the essence of spring with vibrant vegetables and a zesty shallot vinaigrette.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup orzo pasta consider whole wheat or gluten-free options
  • 1 cup asparagus chopped, blanched briefly
  • 1 cup peas fresh or frozen, blanched
  • 2 cups arugula add right before serving
  • 1 cup feta cheese optional, can substitute with goat cheese
For the Vinaigrette
  • 2 tablespoons shallots finely chopped, sauté until golden
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin recommended
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice can substitute with vinegar
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper

Equipment

  • medium skillet
  • large pot
  • colander
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Sauté shallots until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In the same skillet, add asparagus and sauté over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Transfer to ice water, then drain.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the orzo, asparagus, and peas. Gently fold in arugula and vinaigrette until evenly coated.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, enjoy the salad freshly prepared, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Letting it sit enhances flavors.

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