Best 2 Farmers Market Orzo Salad Recipes

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Farmers market orzo salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer picnic or potluck. Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and is the perfect base for a salad. When combined with fresh, seasonal vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing, orzo salad becomes a refreshing and satisfying meal. This article will provide you with a guide to creating the best farmers market orzo salad, offering tips on selecting the freshest ingredients, as well as providing a step-by-step recipe for a delicious and nutritious salad.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

FARMERS MARKET ORZO SALAD



Farmers Market Orzo Salad image

Orzo is a tiny pasta shaped like rice. We use it as a base for veggies, lemony vinaigrette and cheeses such as mozzarella, feta or smoked Gouda. -Heather Dezzutto, Raleigh, North Carolina

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch     Side Dishes

Time 35m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 package (16 ounces) orzo pasta
2 small yellow summer squash, halved lengthwise
1 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise
1 medium red onion, quartered
8 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
1/4 teaspoon pepper, divided
3 tablespoons lemon juice
8 ounces smoked mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
1-1/2 cups grape tomatoes, halved lengthwise
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted

Steps:

  • Cook orzo according to package directions; drain. Brush yellow squash, zucchini and onion with 2 tablespoons oil; sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Grill vegetables, covered, over medium heat or broil 4 in. from heat 10-12 minutes or until lightly charred and tender, turning once. Cool slightly. Cut into 1-in. pieces., In a small bowl, whisk lemon juice and remaining oil until blended. In a large bowl, combine orzo, grilled vegetables, mozzarella, tomatoes, basil and remaining salt and pepper. Add dressing; toss to coat. Sprinkle with pine nuts.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 291 calories, Fat 27g fat (7g saturated fat), Cholesterol 25mg cholesterol, Sodium 274mg sodium, Carbohydrate 7g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 9g protein.

ORZO SALAD WITH HEIRLOOM TOMATOES AND HERBS



Orzo Salad with Heirloom Tomatoes and Herbs image

Categories     Salad     Herb     Olive     Onion     Pasta     Tomato     Side     Picnic     Summer     Bon Appétit     Vegan     Vegetarian     Pescatarian     Dairy Free     Peanut Free     Tree Nut Free     Soy Free     Kosher

Yield Makes 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 10

8 ounces orzo (rice-shaped pasta; about 1 1/4 cups)
2 tablespoons Sherry wine vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/4 pounds assorted heirloom tomatoes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3/4 cup chopped green onions
1/2 cup sliced pitted oil-cured olives
1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley

Steps:

  • Cook orzo in large pot of boiling salted water until tender but still firm to bite, stirring occasionally. Drain. Rinse under cold water; drain well. Transfer to medium bowl; cool.
  • Whisk vinegar and lemon juice in small bowl; gradually whisk in oil. Pour dressing over orzo. Mix in remaining ingredients. Season to taste with salt and pepper. (Can be made 2 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature. Stir before serving.)

Tips:

  • Select the freshest vegetables: The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the taste of your salad. Look for vegetables that are vibrant in color and free of blemishes.
  • Cook the orzo al dente: Orzo should be cooked until it is tender but still has a slight bite to it. Overcooked orzo will become mushy and ruin the texture of your salad.
  • Let the orzo cool completely: Before adding the orzo to your salad, let it cool completely. This will prevent the salad from becoming watery.
  • Use a variety of vegetables: The more vegetables you use, the more flavorful your salad will be. Some good options include tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, zucchini, and corn.
  • Don't be afraid to experiment: There are endless possibilities when it comes to making a farmers market orzo salad. Feel free to add your own favorite vegetables, herbs, and dressings.

Conclusion:

A farmers market orzo salad is a delicious and refreshing meal that is perfect for summer. It is packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and orzo, and it is tossed in a tangy vinaigrette dressing. This salad is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste. So next time you're at the farmers market, be sure to pick up some fresh vegetables and give this recipe a try!

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