Best 2 Farmers Market Orzo Salad Recipes

In the heart of summer, the farmers' markets overflow with an array of vibrant, seasonal produce, each ingredient a testament to the bounty of nature. This tantalizing Farmers' Market Orzo Salad celebrates the harvest's best, combining tender orzo pasta with a medley of fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a tangy lemon-tahini dressing. Alongside this delightful main dish, the article offers a delightful trio of complementary recipes: a refreshing Cucumber-Avocado Salad with a zesty lime dressing, a flavorful Grilled Corn Salad with a hint of smokiness, and a luscious Watermelon Salad with a drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze. These vibrant salads, bursting with garden-fresh flavors, are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply a delightful summer meal.

Let's cook with our recipes!

GRILLED VEGETABLE ORZO PASTA SALAD

Grilled Vegetable Orzo Pasta Salad image

Grilled vegetables from the farmers market shine in this orzo pasta salad, perfect as a side dish or meatless main.

Provided by Gina

Categories Dinner Lunch Meal Prep Side Dish

Time 25m

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups uncooked orzo pasta (wheat or gluten-free)
1 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
1 clove minced garlic
extra virgin olive oil spray
1 small red onion (quartered)
1 red bell pepper (seeded and sliced into 4 pieces)
1 yellow bell pepper (seeded and sliced into 4 pieces)
1 large (10 ounce zucchini, sliced into 1/4 inch thick rounds)
kosher salt
black pepper (to taste)
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup chopped basil

Steps:

Cook orzo in salted water according to package directions; drain and rinse under cold water, transfer to a large bowl and combine with tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of the oil and garlic.
Meanwhile spray the onions, bell peppers and zucchini with olive oil; season with 1 teaspoon salt and black pepper, to taste.
Grill vegetables on a grill basket over oiled grates, covered, (or broil 4 inches from flame) 10-12 minutes or until lightly charred and tender, turning halfway.
Set aside on a cutting board to cool slightly, then dice into 1/2-inch pieces.
Toss with the remaining olive oil and vinegar and top with chopped basil.

Nutrition Facts : ServingSize 1 1/3 cups, Calories 267 kcal, Carbohydrate 39.5 g, Protein 6.5 g, Fat 9 g, SaturatedFat 1 g, Sodium 6 mg, Fiber 4 g, Sugar 4.5 g

ORZO VEGETABLE SALAD

Orzo Vegetable Salad image

Heading to a potluck and need something to share? Tangy lemon dressing over cool orzo and vegetables is everything you want in a light side dish. -Terri Crandall, Gardnerville, Nevada

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch Side Dishes

Time 30m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 15

Ingredients

1/2 cup uncooked orzo pasta
3 plum tomatoes, chopped
1 cup marinated quartered artichoke hearts, chopped
1 cup coarsely chopped fresh spinach
2 green onions, chopped
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 tablespoon capers, drained
DRESSING:
1/3 cup olive oil
4 teaspoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon minced fresh tarragon or 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
2 teaspoons rice vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Steps:

Cook orzo according to package directions., Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, artichokes, spinach, onions, cheese and capers. In a small bowl, whisk the dressing ingredients., Drain orzo and rinse in cold water. Add to vegetable mixture., Pour dressing over salad; toss to coat. Chill until serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 259 calories, Fat 19g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 5mg cholesterol, Sodium 460mg sodium, Carbohydrate 18g carbohydrate (2g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 4g protein.

Tips:

Choose the freshest vegetables possible. This will ensure that your salad is flavorful and packed with nutrients.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different vegetables. There are many delicious vegetables that can be used in orzo salad, so don't be afraid to try something new.
Make sure to cook the orzo according to the package directions. Undercooked or overcooked orzo will not be as tasty or satisfying.
Let the orzo cool completely before adding it to the salad. This will help to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
Use a light and flavorful dressing. A simple vinaigrette or lemon-herb dressing is a great option for orzo salad.
Season the salad to taste. Add salt, pepper, and other seasonings to taste until the salad is perfectly flavorful.

Conclusion:

Farmers' market orzo salad is a delicious and healthy side dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. With its fresh vegetables, flavorful dressing, and perfectly cooked orzo, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.