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+ servings

Sun Dried Tomato Orzo Pesto Salad

A refreshing and vibrant salad featuring orzo pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and a homemade pesto dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Vegetables
  • 1 cup orzo pasta uncooked
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped, packed in oil
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup fresh spinach roughly chopped
  • 1 cup feta cheese crumbled
Pesto Dressing
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves packed
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts toasted
  • 1/2 cup olive oil extra virgin
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Method
 

Cook the Orzo
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Prepare the Pesto Dressing
  1. In a blender or food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
  2. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Combine Salad Ingredients
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and feta cheese.
  2. Pour the pesto dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Serve
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gFiber: 3gSugar: 2g

Notes

This salad can be served warm or cold and is perfect for meal prep or as a side dish for barbecues.

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