FARMERS MARKET ORZO SALAD

Farmers Market Orzo Salad image

Orzo is a tiny pasta shaped like rice. We use it as a base for veggies, lemony vinaigrette and cheeses such as mozzarella, feta or smoked Gouda. -Heather Dezzutto, Raleigh, North Carolina

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 35m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

1 package (16 ounces) orzo pasta
2 small yellow summer squash, halved lengthwise
1 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise
1 medium red onion, quartered
8 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
1/4 teaspoon pepper, divided
3 tablespoons lemon juice
8 ounces smoked mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
1-1/2 cups grape tomatoes, halved lengthwise
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted

Steps:

Cook orzo according to package directions; drain. Brush yellow squash, zucchini and onion with 2 tablespoons oil; sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Grill vegetables, covered, over medium heat or broil 4 in. from heat 10-12 minutes or until lightly charred and tender, turning once. Cool slightly. Cut into 1-in. pieces., In a small bowl, whisk lemon juice and remaining oil until blended. In a large bowl, combine orzo, grilled vegetables, mozzarella, tomatoes, basil and remaining salt and pepper. Add dressing; toss to coat. Sprinkle with pine nuts.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 291 calories, Fat 27g fat (7g saturated fat), Cholesterol 25mg cholesterol, Sodium 274mg sodium, Carbohydrate 7g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 9g protein.