Save to Pinterest This Asparagus Lemon Orzo Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that captures the essence of spring. Combining tender orzo pasta with crisp shaved asparagus ribbons and nutty Parmesan cheese, it is all tossed in a bright, zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. It is an effortless and light meal, perfect for sunny gatherings or a refreshing Mediterranean-style lunch.
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The standout feature of this salad is the preparation of the asparagus. By using a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons, you maintain the vegetable's natural snap while allowing it to soak up the garlic and Dijon-infused dressing. Combined with the soft texture of the orzo and the savory depth of freshly grated Parmesan, every bite is a harmonious mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
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- Pasta: 1 cup (180 g) orzo, Salt, for the pasta water
- Vegetables: 1 bunch (about 250 g) fresh asparagus, tough ends trimmed; 2 cups (60 g) baby arugula (optional, for extra greens)
- Cheese & Nuts: 1/2 cup (40 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; 1/4 cup (30 g) toasted pine nuts (optional)
- Dressing: 1 large lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tbsp juice); 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil; 1 small garlic clove, finely minced; 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp honey or maple syrup; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Salt, to taste
- Fresh Herbs: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil or mint (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse briefly under cold water, and set aside to cool.
- Step 2
- While orzo cooks, shave asparagus into thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler. Place ribbons in a large bowl. (If spears are thick, slice lengthwise first.)
- Step 3
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
- Step 4
- Add cooled orzo, shaved asparagus, arugula (if using), Parmesan, pine nuts (if using), and herbs to the bowl. Pour dressing over and toss gently to combine.
- Step 5
- Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired. Serve immediately, topped with additional Parmesan if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To prevent the orzo from sticking together, ensure you rinse it briefly under cold water after draining. It is also important to let the pasta cool slightly before tossing it with the fresh asparagus and arugula to keep the greens from wilting. For the most uniform ribbons, use a sharp vegetable peeler and firm asparagus spears.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
This salad is very versatile. For a heartier version, you can add grilled chicken or a can of drained chickpeas. If you prefer a different cheese, pecorino makes an excellent substitute for Parmesan. Additionally, toasted slivered almonds can be used in place of pine nuts for a similar nutty crunch.
Serviervorschläge
This salad is best served immediately, but it can also be made several hours ahead and refrigerated. If preparing in advance, allow it to come to room temperature before serving to maximize the flavors. It pairs beautifully with grilled seafood or can be served as a refreshing centerpiece for a picnic lunch.
Save to Pinterest Refreshing, bright, and simple to prepare, this Asparagus Lemon Orzo Salad is a perfect addition to your seasonal recipe collection. Its combination of fresh herbs, zesty citrus, and crisp vegetables makes it a crowd-pleasing dish that tastes like summer in every bowl.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the salad several hours ahead and refrigerate it. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. The components won't become soggy since the orzo absorbs the dressing beautifully.
- → What's the best way to shave asparagus?
Use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons along the length of each spear. For thicker asparagus, slice lengthwise first, then shave. This technique keeps the asparagus tender and provides an elegant presentation.
- → Can I substitute the pine nuts?
Absolutely. Toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds work wonderfully as alternatives. They add the same satisfying crunch while accommodating different preferences and allergies.
- → How do I make this heartier?
Add grilled or rotisserie chicken, white beans, or chickpeas to transform it into a complete main course. These proteins complement the fresh Mediterranean flavors perfectly while keeping the dish light.
- → What cheese alternatives work best?
Pecorino Romano offers a sharper, saltier profile, while feta adds tanginess. Asiago provides a nuttier depth. Choose based on your preference for intensity and how it pairs with the bright lemon dressing.
- → Can I use regular asparagus instead of fresh?
Fresh asparagus is ideal for its crisp texture and bright flavor. If using frozen, thaw and gently squeeze dry before shaving. The texture will differ slightly but still deliver good results in the salad.
