Confetti Orzo Salad
User Reviews
5
Confetti Orzo Salad
Description
Confetti Orzo Salad blends cooked orzo with long grain and wild rice seasoned packets, providing a varied grain base with subtle seasoning. Fresh red and yellow bell peppers, diced purple onion, and slivered almonds contribute crunch and vibrant colors, while craisins add a touch of sweetness. Capers bring briny notes, balanced by fresh basil and parsley. The dressing combines extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice, seasoned with salt and pepper to enhance the fresh ingredients.
The salad is prepared by boiling the orzo until tender and cooking the rice per package instructions, then combining them with the chopped vegetables, nuts, dried fruit, and herbs. Tossing with the lemon dressing and chilling allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a refreshing dish.
This salad works well as a side for grilled meats or as a light lunch. It can be prepared ahead, making it convenient for gatherings or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups orzo
- 1 (6 oz) package long grain rice with seasonings
- 1 (6 oz) package wild rice with seasonings
- 1/2 /2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest, grated
- 1/3 /3 cup lemon juice fresh
- salt freshly ground
- black pepper freshly ground
- ¾ cup almonds slivered
- ½ red bell pepper about 1/2 cup, diced finely
- ½ yellow bell pepper about 1/2 cup, diced finely
- ½ purple onion diced finely
- ½ cup craisins
- ¼ cup capers drained
- 2 Tablespoons basil finely chopped, fresh
- 2 Tablespoons parsley finely chopped, fresh
Instructions
- In a large pot over high heat, bring the water to a boil. Add about a tablespoon of salt. Add the orzo and cook until tender, 5-8 minutes. Drain and cool the orzo.
- Prepare the long grain and wild rice according to package directions. Let cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the 4 Tablespoons of olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice and salt and pepper to taste (I add about 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper). Add the almonds, peppers, onion, craisins, capers, basil, parsley, cooled rice and orzo. Toss to mix well. Refrigerate to let the flavors blend.
- Serve at cold or room temperature.
Notes
- Use the seasoning packets included with the long grain and wild rice for added flavor without extra effort.
- Chill the salad before serving to let flavors meld and intensify.
- Serve at room temperature or cold based on preference and occasion.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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