Italian Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe Video
A mandatory salad for picnics, tailgating, or summer bbq's. This salad is very light and full of flavor. The added mint gives it that little fresh taste.
Summary
Preparation Time20 MinCooking Time10 Min
Ready In30 MinDifficulty LevelEasy
Health IndexAverageServings6
Main IngredientPasta
Ingredients
olive oil 1/2 cup
shallot 2/3 cup minced
lemon juice 1/4 cup
garlic clove 2 diced
lemon zest 1 tsp
salt 1 pinch to taste
black pepper 1 pinch to taste
orzo 2 cups
yellow bell pepper 1 core removed, seeds removed, and diced
cucumber 1 peel, slice in half, scoop out the seeds with a spoon, and dice
ricotta cheese 1 cup
mint (fresh) 1/2 cup minced
Directions
1. In a bowl combine the olive oil, shallots, lemon juice, garlic cloves, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Allow to sit for 1/2 hour.
2. In a pot bring salted water to a boil over high heat.
3. Stir in the orzo pasta and allow to cook for 10 to 13 minutes until al dente.
4. Strain the pasta and rinse briefly under cold water.
5. Place the pasta in a serving bowl and stir in the oil mixture. Combine well. Allow to cool to room temperature.
6. When the pasta has cooled add the yellow bell pepper, cucumber, ricotta cheese, and mint.
7. Combine well and allow to sit at room temperature for 1 hour.
8. Add salt and pepper to taste and serve.
2. In a pot bring salted water to a boil over high heat.
3. Stir in the orzo pasta and allow to cook for 10 to 13 minutes until al dente.
4. Strain the pasta and rinse briefly under cold water.
5. Place the pasta in a serving bowl and stir in the oil mixture. Combine well. Allow to cool to room temperature.
6. When the pasta has cooled add the yellow bell pepper, cucumber, ricotta cheese, and mint.
7. Combine well and allow to sit at room temperature for 1 hour.
8. Add salt and pepper to taste and serve.
