This Orzo Salad is a tasty mix of pasta, crunchy asparagus, and tangy artichoke hearts topped with creamy feta cheese. It’s light, fresh, and perfect for summer days!
I love how colorful this salad is! It’s like a party on my plate. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—ideal for lazy afternoons or picnics. You can enjoy it cold or at room temp!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta shape resembles grains and works perfectly for salads. If orzo is unavailable, try substituting with quinoa or couscous for a different texture and flavor.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a lovely crunch and bright color. If it’s out of season, consider using frozen asparagus or green beans as a substitute.
Artichoke Hearts: They bring a nice tanginess to the salad. Canned artichokes are convenient, but if you can’t find them, marinated artichoke hearts can work too. Just adjust your dressing accordingly.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy, briny flavor. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try using crumbled tofu or a plant-based feta product.
Pine Nuts: They’re delicious toasted, but if you’re looking for a safer, more budget-friendly option, swap them for walnuts or sunflower seeds. Toast them lightly for the best flavor!
How Do I Blanch Asparagus Perfectly?
Blanching asparagus helps keep its vibrant color and crisp texture. It can be tricky, but here’s an easy way to do it:
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the asparagus pieces for about 3-4 minutes.
This quick cook time preserves the bright color and crunch. - Immediately transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking and keeps it green and fresh.
- After a few minutes in the ice bath, drain it well.
This method makes asparagus bright and tender-crisp, perfect for your salad!
How to Make Orzo Salad With Asparagus, Artichoke Hearts And Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
For The Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing orzo salad will take about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the ingredients and roughly another 10 minutes mixing everything together and preparing the dressing. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by cooking the orzo pasta according to the instructions on the package. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s cooked, drain it well and rinse under cold water to cool down quickly. Set it aside in a large bowl.
2. Blanch the Asparagus:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Add the asparagus pieces and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn bright green and are tender-crisp. Drain the asparagus and immediately transfer them into a bowl filled with ice water. This helps keep them vibrant and stops the cooking process. After a few minutes, drain the asparagus again and set aside.
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In the large bowl with the cooked orzo, add the blanched asparagus, quartered artichoke hearts, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted pine nuts. Gently mix everything together to combine without crushing the ingredients.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a little salt and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything together gently. Make sure all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the fresh chopped dill on top of your salad and give it another light toss. Enjoy the orzo salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s a delightful dish for summer gatherings or a fresh side for any meal!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great substitute and adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the salad. Just be aware that it may require a minute or two longer to cook, so check the package instructions for the best cooking time.
What if I Don’t Have Pine Nuts?
No problem! You can substitute pine nuts with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a different texture. Just make sure to toast them for extra flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover orzo salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together beautifully. If it seems a bit dry when you go to eat it, just add a splash of olive oil or a little more lemon juice to refresh it!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Of course! This salad is very versatile. You can add roasted red peppers, cherry tomatoes, or cucumbers for extra color and crunch. Just remember to adjust the seasoning if you add any high-water content veggies to keep the salad balanced!
