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Asparagus & Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad

Fresh Asparagus & Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad for Spring Bliss

A delightful Asparagus & Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad that embodies the promise of spring with vibrant ingredients and flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups Cooked Orzo Pasta Cook according to package directions.
  • 1 bunch Fresh Asparagus Adds a delightful crunch when blanched.
  • 2 cups Fresh Arugula Can substitute with baby spinach.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Diced for mild sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup Pine Nuts Toast for deeper flavor.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Opt for high quality.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Adds tanginess.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Grated or pressed for richness.
  • 1 small Shallot Diced, optional.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Optional to balance flavors.
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Provides acidity.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Essential for brightness.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs Dill, basil, chives, as per preference.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Omit for dairy-free version.
  • to taste Sea Salt & Black Pepper For seasoning.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Mason jar
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fresh asparagus and cook for 3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo pasta, fresh arugula, diced red onion, and cooled asparagus. Add toasted pine nuts and toss gently.
  3. In a mason jar, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, diced shallot, sugar, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Add chopped fresh herbs and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Drizzle dressing over salad ingredients and toss gently until well-coated. Adjust seasoning and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It's not recommended to freeze this salad as the orzo and vegetables can become mushy.

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