Howdy! If you're in the mood for something light, healthy, and absolutely delicious, this White Bean and Orzo Salad is the perfect recipe for you. Packed with protein-rich white beans, tender orzo pasta, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this salad is as satisfying as it is nutritious. The homemade dressing ties everything together with a burst of flavor, making this dish an ideal option for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack. Let’s dive into what makes this salad a must-try!
A Flavorful Homemade Dressing
The dressing is the star of this White Bean and Orzo Salad. Made with a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, parsley, and a touch of garlic powder, it’s both tangy and refreshing. This simple yet flavorful dressing brings out the best in the ingredients, enhancing the natural flavors of the beans and vegetables. Drizzle it over the salad and toss everything together to create a dish that’s bursting with taste in every bite.
Healthy and Delicious
This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. White beans are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, helping you feel full and satisfied. Combined with orzo, a small pasta that adds a delightful texture, and fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, this salad is a nutrient-packed meal that’s light yet hearty. It’s perfect for those looking to eat well without sacrificing flavor.
Recipe
📖 Recipe
WHITE BEAN AND ORZO SALAD
Ingredients
- 1 c orzo
- 1 14 oz can great northern beans
- Handful of torn spinach
- 10 cherry tomatoes halved
- 2 T shaved red onion
- ½ c shredded mozzarella
- 4 slices bacon diced and cooked
For the dressing:
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ⅓ c red wine vinegar
- ¼ c olive oil
- 2 T chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- salt
- pepper
Instructions
- Cook orzo in boiling chicken broth or salted water until done, 7 minutes.
- Rinse with cold water and let drain in a colander.
- Reserve to a large bowl.
- While orzo cooks, fry diced bacon in a skillet until done and reserve to a paper towel lined plate.
- Drain and rinse beans in colander and add to bowl with your orzo.
- Add tomatoes, spinach, red onion and mozzarella.
- Combine all dressing ingredients in a small bowl and whisk to combine.
- Add to your salad mixture, stirring to coat.
- Serve on large plates and top with crispy bacon bits.
Nutrition
Add Your Favorite Meats
While the White Bean and Orzo Salad is delicious on its own, it’s also a versatile dish that can easily be customized with your favorite meats. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sliced steak can be added to make the salad more filling and protein-packed. The meat adds a satisfying heartiness to the dish, making it a complete meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover, this salad can be tailored to suit your tastes.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This salad is also great for meal prep. It holds up well in the fridge, making it an excellent option for preparing ahead of time. You can make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to ensure everything stays fresh and crisp.
White Bean and Orzo Salad is a healthy, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a meal prep option that will keep you satisfied throughout the week, this salad has it all. With its homemade dressing, fresh ingredients, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and enjoy a salad that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
Give this recipe a try, and tag me on Instagram @thefischerupper.
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