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Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Zesty Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Delight

A refreshing Asparagus Orzo Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, perfect for spring and summer gatherings. Healthy, quick, and bursting with vibrant flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Any brand works, Barilla is a favorite.
  • 1 pound Asparagus Opt for slightly thicker stalks.
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Choose those packed in oil.
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion Slice thinly.
  • 1 handful Fresh Basil Adjust according to taste.
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese Freshly crumbled is more flavorful.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Extra light preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey
  • 2 cloves Garlic Freshly minced.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Use fresh zest.
  • To taste pinch Salt
  • To taste pinch Black Pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • measuring jug

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add 1 cup of orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the orzo and set aside to cool.
  2. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of chopped asparagus and sauté for 5-8 minutes until bright green and just tender. Season with salt and black pepper, then slice into 1-inch pieces and add to the bowl with orzo.
  3. In a measuring jug, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, juice of one lemon, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper, whisk until combined.
  4. In the bowl with orzo and asparagus, add 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes, 1/4 cup of thinly sliced red onion, fresh basil leaves, and 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with vinaigrette, season with black pepper, and gently toss together.
  5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Top with extra crumbled feta and basil before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep vinaigrette separate if making ahead to prevent sogginess.

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