Citrus Bliss Orzo Salad with Creamy Whipped Topping
This delightful Citrus Bliss Orzo Salad is a refreshing and creamy dish that combines the tropical flavors of pineapple and mandarin oranges. Adapted for orzo pasta, this salad not only boasts an exquisite taste but also a fun texture that will tantalize your taste buds. The whipped cream dressing, lightened with a hint of vanilla and a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon, elevates this salad to a new level of indulgence. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a make-ahead treat, this vibrant salad is best enjoyed chilled and can be garnished with mint leaves or a sprinkle of Chinese 5 spice powder for an extra kick. Serve it in elegant parfait glasses for a stunning presentation.
10
Servings
320
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
orzo pasta
3 cups (uncooked)
crushed pineapple
1 (20 ounce) can (drained)
mandarin orange sections
3 (6 ounce) cans (drained)
whipping cream
1 pint (chilled)
granulated sugar
2 tablespoons (none)
nutmeg or cinnamon
2 dashes (optional)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by bringing 2 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot.
2
Add the orzo pasta to the boiling water and cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3
Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it briefly under cold water to cool it down. Transfer the cooled orzo to a large mixing bowl.
4
In a medium-sized chilled metal mixing bowl, pour in the whipping cream. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the cream until soft peaks begin to form.
5
Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. If desired, incorporate the nutmeg or cinnamon at this stage, along with the vanilla extract, stirring gently to combine.
6
Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the cooled orzo until the pasta is evenly coated.
7
Add the drained crushed pineapple and mandarin orange sections to the salad, folding them in carefully to maintain their shape.
8
Reserve 4 mandarin orange slices for garnishing just before serving. Cover the salad with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until ready to serve.
9
For an elegant touch, serve the salad in parfait glasses, garnished with the reserved mandarin orange slices and some mint leaves. Optional garnishing with a dash of Chinese 5 spice powder will add an appealing visual and flavor element.
Nutrition Information
18g
Fat
36g
Carbs
2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Citrus Bliss Orzo Salad?
It is a refreshing, creamy dessert-style salad that combines orzo pasta with tropical flavors of pineapple and mandarin oranges.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 10 servings.
How long does it take to cook the orzo?
The orzo should be cooked for about 10-12 minutes until it is al dente.
Should I rinse the orzo after cooking?
Yes, rinse the cooked orzo briefly under cold water to cool it down before mixing.
What are the primary fruits used in this salad?
The primary fruits are crushed pineapple and mandarin orange sections.
Do I need to drain the canned fruit?
Yes, both the crushed pineapple and the mandarin oranges should be drained before being added to the salad.
What type of cream is used for the topping?
One pint of chilled whipping cream is used to create the creamy base.
How do I prepare the whipped cream?
Beat the chilled whipping cream until soft peaks form, then gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
What spices can be added to the dressing?
You can add two dashes of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra flavor.
How much sugar is in the whipped topping?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
Is vanilla extract used in this recipe?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract is added to the whipped cream mixture.
How long should the salad chill?
The salad should be chilled in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Can I garnish this salad?
Yes, you can garnish with reserved mandarin orange slices, mint leaves, or a dash of Chinese 5 spice powder.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 320 calories.
How much fat is in a serving?
There are 18 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content?
Each serving contains 36 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein does this salad provide?
Each serving provides 2 grams of protein.
Is this a good dish for potlucks?
Yes, it is specifically noted as being perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a make-ahead treat.
How should I serve the Citrus Bliss Orzo Salad for a fancy presentation?
Serving the salad in elegant parfait glasses provides a stunning presentation.
Can I use cinnamon instead of nutmeg?
Yes, the recipe allows for either nutmeg or cinnamon depending on your preference.
Should the mixing bowl be chilled for the cream?
Yes, using a chilled metal mixing bowl helps the whipping cream form peaks more effectively.
How much orzo is needed?
You will need 3 cups of uncooked orzo pasta.
How much pineapple is required?
The recipe uses one 20-ounce can of crushed pineapple.
How many cans of mandarin oranges are used?
The recipe calls for three 6-ounce cans of mandarin orange sections.
When should I add the fruit to the mixture?
Fold the fruit in carefully after the whipped cream has been combined with the cooled orzo.
Why is Chinese 5 spice powder mentioned?
It is an optional garnish that adds an appealing visual element and a unique flavor kick.
Do I need to cover the salad while it chills?
Yes, cover the salad with plastic wrap before placing it in the refrigerator.
Is the orzo pasta cooked in plain water?
Yes, it is cooked in 2 quarts of boiling water.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, it is an ideal make-ahead dish as it needs time to chill and sets well.
What is the texture of the salad?
The salad has a fun, unique texture due to the small orzo pasta combined with creamy whipped topping and juicy fruit.