Description
Orzo Kale Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a vibrant and nutritious dish that beautifully combines the hearty textures of kale and orzo pasta, all brought together by a zesty lemon vinaigrette. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether as a light meal, side dish at gatherings, or a picnic staple. With fresh greens, savory olives, and crunchy pumpkin seeds, it’s a delightful option for health-conscious eaters seeking flavor without sacrificing nutrition.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup dry orzo
- 2 cups chopped kale
- 2 cups chopped spinach
- 1/2 cup shaved parmesan
- 1/3 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/3 cup marinated olives
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice from 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- Salt & pepper
Instructions
- Cook the orzo in salted boiling water until al dente (8-12 minutes), then drain and cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo with kale, spinach, pumpkin seeds, olives, and parmesan.
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper for the vinaigrette.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve topped with extra pumpkin seeds and cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling/Tossing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg