Sunshine Orzo Salad with Asparagus Artichokes Feta
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a taste of sunshine? Ever get stuck on what to bring to a party? Let's get to it. My orzo salad with asparagus, artichoke is the answer! It's proper lush, packed with flavour and surprisingly good for you.
Quick Hook: Taste of Sunshine
This isn't just any pasta salad with vegetables . It's a vibrant, fresh delight. Seriously, this asparagus artichoke salad is a star. The lemon herb vinaigrette makes it zing.
Brief Overview: Mediterranean Dream
This salad is inspired by sunny Mediterranean coasts. This Mediterranean orzo salad is easy. It takes about 50 minutes . This recipe will give you 6 servings.
Main Benefits: Goodness in a Bowl
It is full of goodness. Asparagus is packed with vitamins. Serve this feta orzo salad at a barbecue. Or maybe a picnic.
It's special because it's both healthy and tastes amazing. It's a guaranteed hit.
Ready for the ingredients?
Time to Get Cooking!
I want to share my love for summer pasta salad recipes . I was thinking about creating a vegetarian orzo salad that would pop and this is that.
When short on time, this easy pasta salad recipe is a winner. You can make it in advance.
I once made this for a friend's garden party. Everyone raved about it! Now, it’s my go-to. Don’t be scared to tweak it.
Add more feta if you're feeling naughty. Or a pinch of chilli flakes for a kick. The recipe is there to start with.
Do you want a cold orzo salad ? Make it ahead!
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!
Ready to make this gorgeous orzo salad with asparagus, artichoke ? I've got you! No fancy stuff here. Just simple ingredients and easy to find equipment.
Honestly, this easy pasta salad recipe is perfect for anyone. Even if your cooking skills are a bit... ahem , "rustic".
Main Ingredients for Sunshine Flavors
Here is what you need for the orzo pasta salad recipe .
- Orzo Pasta: 1 pound (450g) . Look for a good brand. It should be smooth, not dusty.
- Asparagus: 1 pound (450g) . Spring asparagus is best! It should be firm. Asparagus artichoke salad is amazing, promise!
- Artichoke Hearts: 1 (14-ounce/400g) can . Make sure they are not swimming in oil.
- Feta Cheese: 6 ounces (170g) . Get the good stuff! Crumbled feta is best for a feta orzo salad .
- Fresh Parsley, Mint, Basil: 1/4 cup (30g) each. Fresh is key for this vegetarian orzo salad !
- Kalamata Olives: 1/4 cup (30g) (optional).
- Olive Oil: 1/4 cup (60ml) . Extra virgin. Always!
- Lemon Juice: 3 tablespoons (45ml) . Freshly squeezed is always best!
- Garlic: 1 clove . Minced.
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon .
- Honey/Maple Syrup: 1/2 teaspoon (optional).
- Salt & Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon each.
Seasoning Notes: The Magic Touch
The lemon herb vinaigrette is pure sunshine. The lemon herb vinaigrette really brings everything together. This Mediterranean orzo salad relies on that brightness.
- Essential spices: Salt and pepper. Don't skimp.
- Flavor enhancers: Fresh herbs. They make or break the flavor.
- Quick substitutions: If you are missing basil, use more parsley.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You don't need a ton of kit. A pot and a bowl will do.
- Large Pot: For cooking the pasta.
- Colander: For draining the pasta.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For tossing everything together.
- Whisk: For the vinaigrette.
- Small saucepan: For blanching the asparagus.
Missing something? No worries! Use a microwave safe bowl to blanch your asparagus! Easy peasy. That means you can whip up these summer pasta salad recipes with no hassle.
I bet you will try this cold orzo salad soon!
Alright, let's get cracking on this Sunshine Orzo Salad with Asparagus, Artichokes & Feta ! Think Mediterranean sunshine meets a British garden party.
It is refreshing and vibrant, perfect for a light lunch. Honestly, I'll make sure it's dead easy to follow. Even if you are more "Bake Off" disaster than a Michelin star hopeful.
Cooking Method: The Orzo Salad Way
This easy pasta salad recipe takes about 50 minutes total, including chilling. It's mostly prepping and tossing. And it is worth it.
Prep Steps: Mise en Place Magic
First, make sure everything's ready. Chop 450g asparagus and quarter a can of artichoke hearts. Crumble 170g feta . Chop up a generous amount of fresh parsley, mint, and basil about 30g each.
Honestly, fresh herbs make all the difference. For the lemon herb vinaigrette , mince one garlic clove.
Time saving tip: Chop the herbs while the pasta cooks. Safety reminder: watch those fingers!
step-by-step Process: From Pot to Plate
- Boil 450g orzo pasta until al dente. About 8- 10 minutes . Don't overcook it!
- Blanch the asparagus in boiling water for 2- 3 minutes , then dunk in ice water. Keeps it green!
- Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon, honey (optional), salt, and pepper for the dressing.
- Combine orzo, asparagus, artichokes, feta, and herbs in a big bowl.
- Pour the lemon herb vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently.
- Chill for at least 15 minutes . Letting the flavours meld is important.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Salad Game
Want a Mediterranean orzo salad ? Add sundried tomatoes or cucumber. Don't overcook the orzo. Al dente is key! Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Common mistake: Soggy asparagus! The ice bath is essential. Make it ahead? Sure! Just dress it right before serving to keep the herbs fresh.
This is one of the summer pasta salad recipes you'll make again. I tell you, perfect for a bbq!
Recipe Notes: Your Orzo Salad, Your Way
Right then, let's talk shop about this smashing orzo salad with asparagus, artichoke . It's proper easy but a few pointers can make it even better.
Honestly, this easy pasta salad recipe is adaptable to whatever's lurking in your fridge. Plus, it makes a delightful summer pasta salad recipe
Serving Up Sunshine: Plating Like a Pro
Presentation matters, doesn't it? Plonk the cold orzo salad into a nice bowl, maybe sprinkle a bit more feta on top.
A sprig of mint adds a touch of class. Serve it with grilled chicken or fish chef's kiss ! Some crusty bread is also a winner.
Feeling fancy? A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio goes down a treat. This Mediterranean orzo salad just screams summer vibes.
Storage Secrets: Keepin' it Fresh
Got leftovers? No worries, we've all been there. Pop the feta orzo salad in an airtight container and it'll be grand in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing isn't ideal; the pasta goes a bit funny. Reheating? Best enjoyed cold. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Remix Time: Variations on a Theme
Fancy a change? Swap the feta for goat cheese for a creamier tang. Or, if you're going veggie, this vegetarian orzo salad is top-notch already! For a vegan version, ditch the feta or use a vegan alternative.
Seasonal swaps are easy too. Instead of asparagus artichoke salad , in autumn, roast some butternut squash and add toasted pumpkin seeds lush! You can even add sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense Mediterranean orzo salad flavour.
The Good Stuff: Nutrition Nitty Gritty
Let's break down the healthy bits. This pasta salad with vegetables is full of goodness. You get about 350 calories per serving.
It's packed with protein from the feta, and fibre from the veggies. Plus, that lemon herb vinaigrette is loaded with antioxidants.
Do you know? I once read that asparagus is a great source of vitamin K. So, you're basically eating sunshine and health.
So there you have it! Now you are ready to nail this orzo pasta salad recipe . Don't be afraid to experiment a bit. Trust me. Just have fun and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this orzo salad with asparagus, artichoke ahead of time? Will it get soggy?
Absolutely! This orzo salad is a great make-ahead dish. The flavors actually meld together beautifully as it sits. To prevent it from becoming soggy, I'd recommend adding the dressing about 30 minutes before serving.
And if you really want to be organised, keep some extra dressing on the side and freshen it up just before you serve!
I'm not a huge fan of feta cheese. What can I substitute in this orzo salad with asparagus, artichoke recipe?
No worries, mate! Feta's not everyone's cup of tea. You could try goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor, or crumbled ricotta salata for something a bit milder. If you are not into cheese at all, simply leave it out, and maybe add some toasted pine nuts for a bit of texture and nutty flavour.
How long will this orzo salad with asparagus, artichoke last in the fridge?
This salad will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, stored in an airtight container. The asparagus might lose a bit of its vibrant green color over time, but the flavor will still be fantastic. Just give it a good toss before serving.
Can I freeze this orzo salad with asparagus, artichoke?
Freezing isn't ideal for this salad. The orzo can become a bit mushy upon thawing, and the asparagus and herbs can lose their texture and freshness. If you are looking to do some meal prep, you could prep the ingredients separately in advance and assemble the salad fresh closer to serving.
I don't have fresh herbs. Can I use dried herbs for this orzo salad with asparagus, artichoke?
Fresh herbs really do make a difference, but dried herbs will work in a pinch! As a general rule, you'll want to use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs called for in the recipe. Remember dried herbs are much more potent, so go easy!
Is this recipe healthy? What are the nutritional benefits of this orzo salad with asparagus, artichoke?
This salad is definitely a healthy option! It's packed with fiber from the orzo and asparagus, vitamins and antioxidants from the vegetables and herbs, and protein from the feta. Plus, the olive oil in the vinaigrette provides healthy fats.
Everything in moderation, of course, but this orzo salad is a fantastic choice for a nutritious and delicious meal.
Sunshine Orzo Salad With Asparagus Artichokes Fe
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 4g |
