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Refreshing Pesto Orzo Salad with Sundried Tomatoes

Refreshing Pesto Orzo Salad with Sundried Tomatoes for Any Occasion

This Refreshing Pesto Orzo Salad with Sundried Tomatoes is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, vegan and gluten-free, featuring creamy pesto and crisp veggies.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 23 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup orzo pasta substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed
  • 1/2 cup pesto choose vegan pesto for a plant-based version
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil select a high-quality oil for the best taste
  • 1 medium cucumber diced into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes opt for oil-packed varieties
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese swap for vegan feta to make it dairy-free
  • 1 cup arugula baby spinach or finely chopped kale can be used as alternatives
  • 1 can chickpeas drained and rinsed well
  • 2 tablespoons parsley chopped finely
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh juice is recommended
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
Optional Add-Ons
  • 1/4 cup toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts
  • 1 cup roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini
  • to taste red pepper flakes for heat
  • 1/2 cup grilled tofu or tempeh for additional protein
  • to taste citrus zest like lemon or orange

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 6-8 minutes, until al dente. Drain and cool under cold water.
  2. Dice cucumber into bite-sized pieces and chop parsley. Ensure sundried tomatoes are oil-packed or rehydrated.
  3. Combine cooled orzo with pesto, olive oil, cucumber, sundried tomatoes, chickpeas, feta, parsley, arugula, and lemon juice in a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly.
  4. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Adjust as necessary.
  5. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for an hour for enhanced flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 8gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad is versatile and can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients.

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