Fresh Spinach and Tomato Orzo Salad: A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite 🥗

Spinach, Tomato & Orzo Salad 🥗

Overview:

This Spinach, Tomato & Orzo Salad is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that come together in a harmonious symphony of flavors. It’s a low cholesterol option, perfect for those seeking a healthy, quick, and easy meal with a burst of freshness in every bite. With just 27 minutes of total prep and cook time, this recipe yields a satisfying dish that’s both light and nourishing.

Ingredients:

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 320.1
• Fat Content: 5.3g
• Saturated Fat Content: 0.8g
• Cholesterol Content: 0mg
• Sodium Content: 101.8mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 61g
• Fiber Content: 8.4g
• Sugar Content: 1.6g
• Protein Content: 13.1g

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

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   • Bunch up the spinach leaves and shred them finely, creating confetti-like pieces. Place them in a medium-sized bowl.
   • Halve the grape tomatoes and add them to the bowl with the spinach.
   • Zest the lemons, adding the zest to the bowl. Save the lemons for later use, perhaps for a refreshing lemonade or dressing!

2. Cook the Orzo:

   • Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
   • Once cooked, drain the orzo thoroughly, ensuring there’s no excess water.

3. Combine the Ingredients:

   • Drizzle 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over the spinach, tomatoes, and lemon zest mixture.
   • Toss the ingredients gently to combine, ensuring the olive oil coats everything evenly.
   • The heat from the freshly cooked orzo will gently wilt the spinach and release the flavors, creating a beautiful melding of tastes.

4. Final Touches:

   • Add the fresh basil leaves to the bowl, tearing them into smaller pieces for a burst of herbal fragrance.
   • Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste, giving it a final toss to incorporate all the flavors.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Transfer the Spinach, Tomato & Orzo Salad to a serving dish or individual bowls.
   • Garnish with a few extra basil leaves for a vibrant presentation.
   • This salad is wonderful when served immediately while still warm, or it can be chilled in the refrigerator for a refreshing cold option.

Serving Suggestions:

• This salad is delightful on its own as a light lunch or dinner option.
• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a protein-packed meal.
• Serve alongside crusty bread or a side of quinoa for added texture and depth.
• Enjoy a refreshing glass of iced tea or a crisp white wine to complement the flavors.

Tips and Tricks:

• To save time, you can prepare the spinach, tomatoes, and lemon zest ahead of cooking the orzo.
• For added protein, toss in some chickpeas or grilled shrimp.
• Customize the salad by adding your favorite veggies such as cucumbers or bell peppers.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion:

This Spinach, Tomato & Orzo Salad is a celebration of freshness and simplicity, bringing together vibrant ingredients for a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal on a busy weeknight or a colorful addition to your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the healthy benefits of this delightful salad! 🌿🍅✨