Orzo and Arugula Salad

Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Servings: 8
Yield: 8 servings

Description

This orzo salad with arugula is full of great textures, from crisp veggies to crunchy nuts and dried fruit, and features a zesty balsamic dressing.

Ingredients

1 (16 ounce) package whole-wheat orzo pasta
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 bunch green onions, sliced
1 cup frozen corn
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup sliced almonds
1 cup arugula
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons dried basil
salt and ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup canola oil
1/2 cup olive oil
1/3 cup white balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon white sugar

Directions

1 Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook orzo in boiling water, stirring occasionally, until cooked through but firm to the bite, about 12 minutes. Drain.
2 Combine cooked orzo, bell pepper, green onions, corn, cranberries, almonds, arugula, Parmesan cheese, 2 teaspoons basil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl; set salad aside.
3 Whisk together oils, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, sugar, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon basil in a medium bowl until dressing is well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
4 Drizzle dressing over salad and toss to coat.