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Orzo Pasta Salad

Orzo Pasta Salad

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

Description

This Orzo Pasta Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and easy-to-make dish packed with colorful fresh vegetables, crispy smoked turkey bacon, and creamy plant-based cheese. Perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful side, it combines a delightful mix of textures and bright flavors that enhance any meal occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Orzo Pasta

  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • Salt, for boiling water

Fresh Vegetables

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
  • 1 cup cucumbers, diced
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced

Protein and Cheese

  • 6 slices smoked turkey bacon
  • 3/4 cup plant-based cheese, diced or crumbled

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (natural)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Herbs & Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook for 7 to 9 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Veggies and Smoked Turkey Bacon: While the orzo cooks, dice the cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Cook the smoked turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, then chop into smaller pieces.
  3. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), salt, and pepper until well combined, creating a bright and tangy dressing.
  4. Combine All Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss the cooled orzo pasta, diced vegetables, smoked turkey bacon, and plant-based cheese. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Add Fresh Herbs and Chill: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the salad and give it a gentle toss. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the pasta to maintain the best texture and avoid mushiness.
  • Chill the salad before serving to enhance its refreshing quality and flavor.
  • Use fresh vegetables and herbs for optimal taste and presentation.
  • Toss the salad gently to keep plant-based cheese and vegetables intact.
  • Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your preference for a perfectly balanced flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Boiling, Skillet
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Orzo Pasta Salad, fresh pasta salad, plant-based cheese salad, smoked turkey bacon salad, quick pasta salad

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