Orzo and Kale Salad Recipe
Category: Main Dishes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kale (Cavolo riccio) | 230g |
| Pearl barley (Orzo perlato) | 220g |
| Mantovana pumpkin (Zucca mantovana) | 120g |
| Pre-cooked white beans (Fagioli bianchi precotti) | 250g |
| Peanuts (Arachidi) | 40g |
| Raisins (Uvetta) | 35g |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP (Grated) | 40g |
| Extra virgin olive oil (Olio extravergine d’oliva) | 50g |
| Sea salt (Sale fino) | to taste |
| Apple cider vinegar (Aceto di mele) | 10g |
Instructions:
-
Cook the Orzo: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pearl barley (orzo perlato) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s tender. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
-
-
Prepare the Kale: Wash and dry the kale leaves. Remove the tough stems from the center of the leaves. Tear the kale into smaller pieces, then transfer half of it to a blender. Add the extra virgin olive oil, grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, and a bit of the reserved cooking water from the orzo. Blend until you achieve a smooth, creamy pesto-like texture.
-
Toss the Orzo: Place the cooked orzo in a large mixing bowl. Pour the kale pesto over the orzo and toss well to coat the grains evenly. Set aside.
-
Prepare the Pumpkin: Cut the Mantovana pumpkin in half, remove the seeds, and peel off the skin. Slice it into wedges and then into small cubes. Heat a little olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cubed pumpkin and sauté for a few minutes until it becomes golden brown and tender. Remove from heat.
-
Assemble the Salad: In another bowl, take the remaining half of the kale you set aside earlier. Dress it with salt, olive oil, and toss gently. Add the pre-cooked white beans, rehydrated raisins (be sure to drain them well), and the peanuts to the kale.
-
Combine and Serve: Finally, combine the kale salad with the orzo mixture. Toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and a splash of apple cider vinegar to taste.
-
Enjoy: Serve the orzo and kale salad fresh as a flavorful and satisfying dish. Perfect for a wholesome lunch or a light dinner!
This hearty salad is filled with vibrant flavors, from the earthy kale to the sweetness of the pumpkin, and is beautifully balanced with the nuttiness of peanuts and the sweetness of raisins. The Parmigiano Reggiano pesto adds a creamy, savory finish that ties everything together.
