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Summer Orzo Pasta Salad

Summer Orzo Pasta Salad

  • Author: Christopher
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Summer Orzo Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish combining tender orzo pasta with smoky turkey bacon, creamy plant-based cheese, and a medley of crisp, colorful vegetables. Perfect for warm days, this light salad offers a delightful balance of textures and bright flavors, ideal as a main or side dish for summer meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta
  • 4 slices Smoked Turkey Bacon
  • 1 cup Plant-Based Cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup Cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup Red Bell Pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons Lemon Juice (natural)
  • 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural)
  • Salt to taste
  • Black Pepper to taste
  • Pinch of Natural Gelling Agent (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process, then set aside.
  2. Prepare the Smoky Turkey Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy, turning occasionally. Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess fat. Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Chop the Vegetables and Herbs: Dice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion into small, uniform pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and finely chop the fresh parsley for even distribution of flavors.
  4. Mix the Dressing: Whisk together fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. If desired, stir in a pinch of natural gelling agent to add a silky texture that helps the dressing emulsify.
  5. Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, chopped vegetables, crispy turkey bacon, and plant-based cheese cubes. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated and well mixed.
  6. Chill and Serve: Place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld perfectly, then give it a quick stir before serving.

Notes

  • Cook Orzo Al Dente: Avoid overcooking to keep a firm, chewy texture.
  • Chill Thoroughly: Cooling the salad allows flavors to develop and enhances refreshment.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs boost crunch and aroma.
  • Toss Gently: Handle carefully to keep plant-based cheese and veggies intact.
  • Adjust Seasoning Last: Check salt and pepper after chilling and tweak if necessary.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: orzo pasta salad, summer salad, plant-based cheese salad, smoky turkey bacon salad, refreshing pasta salad

Find it online: https://easyrecipeplanet.com/summer-orzo-pasta-salad/