For Professionals

Citrus Orzo Salad

Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 0 min

You might be tempted to use the tart, slightly hot dressing for this salad in other recipes. The flavors here may feel a little Italian, which is logical because Italy has been the home of citrus fruit for more than 2,000 years.

Countless citrus varieties grow in Italy, and both lemon and lime are prevalent in the cuisine of the region. Try adding a little orange zest as well, if you want a burst of sweetness.

Makes

4 servings

Serving size

1 serving

Ingredients

Dressing:

¼ cup olive oil

Juice of ½ lemon

Juice and zest of ½ lime

2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated

2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

 

Salad:

3 cups cooked orzo pasta

1 yellow bell pepper, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

½ small red onion, chopped

1 medium zucchini, diced

Instructions

To prepare dressing:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lime juice, lime zest, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.

To prepare salad:

  1. In a large bowl, toss together the orzo, yellow bell pepper, red bell pepper, onion, and zucchini.
  2. Add the dressing, toss well to combine, and serve.

Cooking Tip

Orzo is a small pasta that looks like rice or barley grains, and can create dishes that have a risotto-like texture. Orzo is made from the hard wheat berry, which ensures the pasta holds its shape and does not overcook easily.

Nutrition Info

Nutrition Info

Makes: 4 servings  Serving size: 1 serving

Calories

312

Fat

16 g

Saturated Fat

2 g

Trans Fat

0 g

Cholesterol

2 mg

Carbohydrates

34 g

Sugar

3 g

Fiber

4 g

Protein

7 g

Sodium

154 mg

Calcium

61 mg

Phosphorus

121 mg

Potassium

167 mg