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Cold Asparagus Orzo Salad

Cold Asparagus Orzo Salad: Light, Bright, and Flavorful Delight

Enjoy a refreshing Cold Asparagus Orzo Salad, perfect for spring gatherings, with vibrant flavors and textures.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 bunch Asparagus use thicker spears for better slicing
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta can be substituted with gluten-free orzo
  • 1 cup Peas frozen peas can be used for convenience
  • 1/4 cup Mint alternative herbs like basil or cilantro can also be used
  • 1/4 cup Parsley
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1 whole Lemons (zest and juice) can replace with white balsamic vinegar
  • 1 small Shallot finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced or made into a paste
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Honey adjust based on taste preference
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option
  • to taste Kosher Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
  3. While the orzo is cooking, take the asparagus and trim the woody ends off. Slice the spears into ¼ inch coins.
  4. In the final minute of cooking the orzo, gently stir in the asparagus coins and peas.
  5. Once cooked, carefully drain the mixture in a colander. Rinse immediately under cold running water.
  6. In a medium bowl, combine finely chopped shallots, minced garlic, lemon zest, juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, then whisk until smooth.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, blanched asparagus, peas, and the freshly made vinaigrette. Toss in the chopped mint and parsley.
  8. Transfer the salad to a serving platter or bowl and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freezing is not recommended.

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