Black Bean and Orzo Salad Recipe
Description
This Black Bean and Orzo Salad is a delightful and nutritious dish that serves perfectly as a side but is hearty enough to stand alone as a main course. Unlike typical pasta salads that often rely on oil for flavor, this salad showcases fresh ingredients and bold flavors that make it a crowd-pleaser, even at potlucks, where it tends to disappear quickly. With its vibrant colors and textures, you won’t even miss the oil!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 59.5 |
| Total Fat | 0.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 1.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g |
| Sugars | 0.8 g |
| Protein | 2.2 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient Quantity | Ingredient Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | black beans (canned or cooked) |
| 2 | fresh green beans |
| 1 | orzo pasta |
| 8 | fresh parsley (chopped) |
| 4-6 | fresh cilantro (chopped) |
| To taste | salt |
| To taste | pepper |
Instructions
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Cook the Orzo: Begin by cooking the orzo according to the package directions. It usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes, so keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t become overcooked. Once cooked, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
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Prepare the Vegetables: While the orzo is cooking, clean the fresh green beans and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Additionally, wash and chop the fresh parsley and cilantro.
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Soften the Beans: To enhance the texture of the green beans, place them in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 60 to 90 seconds. This step softens the beans slightly, allowing them to better match the texture of the orzo and the other vegetables in the salad.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, black beans, softened green beans, chopped parsley, and cilantro. Toss all the ingredients together gently to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
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Season the Salad: Add salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the seasoning according to your preferences. For an extra kick, consider adding some chili flakes or your favorite spice blend.
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Let it Rest: It’s important to let the salad sit for a while, as the flavors will meld beautifully over time. If you can, prepare this salad the night before serving. This resting time allows the ingredients to soak in the flavors fully.
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Final Adjustments: Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you find any flavors to be a bit harsh, adding a touch of Splenda or a similar sweetener can help balance the taste, much like adjusting a pasta sauce.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Black Bean and Orzo Salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s a fantastic dish for large gatherings and is sure to be a hit at any potluck!
Keywords
Beans, < 30 Mins, For Large Groups, Easy
With its unique approach to flavor and texture, this Black Bean and Orzo Salad is an excellent addition to your meal repertoire. It’s not only simple to prepare but also provides a nutritious alternative to traditional pasta salads, making it an ideal choice for gatherings, picnics, or even just a weeknight dinner. Enjoy the vibrant taste of fresh ingredients in every bite!
