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Fresh orzo salad in a rustic bowl

Orzo Salad Recipe: Fresh & Flavorful Summer Salad


  • Author: Cindy
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

  • Orzo Salad bursting with veggies and tangy vinaigrette—easy, fresh, and perfect for summer meals or make-ahead lunches.

Ingredients

  • For the Salad:

    • 1 pound green beans, trimmed and cut into 23 inch pieces

    • 1½ cups (8 ounces) dried orzo pasta

    • 3 ears fresh corn, husked and kernels removed

    • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

    For the Dressing:

    • ½ cup distilled white vinegar

    • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil

    • ½ cup minced shallots

    • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

    • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh tarragon

    • Salt and black pepper to taste


Instructions

  • Blanch the Green Beans:
    Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3–5 minutes until just tender. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to cool, then drain.

  • Cook the Orzo:
    Refill the pot with water and bring to a boil. Add the orzo and cook for 8–11 minutes until just tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking.

  • Prepare the Corn:
    Remove the husks and silk from the corn. Using a sharp knife, slice the kernels off the cob into a large bowl.

  • Make the Dressing:
    In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, shallots, Dijon mustard, tarragon, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

  • Assemble the Salad:
    In a large bowl, toss the cooked orzo with ½ cup of the dressing. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Evenly layer the corn, green beans, and cherry tomatoes over the orzo.

  • Chill and Serve:
    Cover and refrigerate the salad along with the remaining dressing until ready to serve. When serving, pour about ¾ of the remaining dressing over the salad and gently mix. Add more dressing and seasoning to taste if desired.

  • Prep Time: 40 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Pasta and Grain Salads
  • Method: Boiling, Mixing
  • Cuisine: American