Lemon Basil Orzo Salad with Grapes and Toasted Pistachios
This refreshing and flavorful orzo salad is a delightful twist on traditional pasta salads. With juicy red grapes, crunchy toasted pistachios, fresh basil, and a bright lemon garlic dressing, it pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a standalone dish at summer gatherings. The combination of sweet, savory, and nutty elements creates an unexpected but delicious experience for the palate.
6
Servings
533
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Orzo pasta
1 lb (cooked according to package instructions)
Red grapes
2 cups (whole or halved)
Pistachios
2 cups (shelled and toasted)
Basil
1 cup (chopped)
Lemon juice
1/3 cup (freshly squeezed)
Walnut oil
1/2 cup
Garlic cloves
3 (chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pistachios on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, until they are fragrant and slightly golden. Set aside to cool.
2
In a small skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the chopped garlic for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
3
Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Drain thoroughly.
4
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, sautéed garlic, and enough walnut oil to lightly coat the pasta.
5
Stir in the lemon juice, mixing well to incorporate.
6
Add the red grapes, half of the chopped basil, and a portion of the toasted pistachios. Toss gently to combine.
7
Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight for best flavor development.
8
Before serving, sprinkle with the remaining basil, additional pistachios, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutrition Information
28g
Fat
67g
Carbs
10g
Protein
6g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lemon Basil Orzo Salad with Grapes and Toasted Pistachios?
It is a refreshing pasta salad featuring cooked orzo, red grapes, toasted pistachios, fresh basil, and a bright lemon-walnut oil dressing.
What are the primary ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients include 1 lb of orzo pasta, 2 cups of red grapes, 2 cups of pistachios, 1 cup of fresh basil, 1/3 cup lemon juice, 1/2 cup walnut oil, and 3 garlic cloves.
How do I toast the pistachios?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), spread the shelled pistachios on a baking sheet, and toast for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and golden.
How should the garlic be prepared for this salad?
The garlic should be chopped and sautéed in a small skillet with a splash of olive oil for 1-2 minutes until fragrant before being added to the orzo.
Should the orzo be rinsed after cooking?
Yes, the orzo should be drained and rinsed under cold water to stop the cooking process and then drained thoroughly.
What type of oil is recommended for the dressing?
This recipe specifically calls for 1/2 cup of walnut oil to provide a unique nutty flavor.
Can I substitute the walnut oil?
While walnut oil is recommended, you can substitute it with extra virgin olive oil if necessary.
How should the grapes be prepared?
The red grapes can be added to the salad either whole or halved depending on your preference.
When should I add the fresh basil?
Add half of the chopped basil when first mixing the salad and use the remaining half as a garnish just before serving.
How long should the salad chill before serving?
For the best flavor development, cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for several hours or even overnight.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are plant-based, making this salad naturally vegan.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 533 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 28 grams of fat per serving, largely from the pistachios and walnut oil.
How much protein is in this orzo salad?
This recipe provides 10 grams of protein per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 67 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is there a lot of fiber in this dish?
Yes, each serving provides 6 grams of dietary fiber.
Can I make this salad gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, you would need to replace the standard wheat orzo with a gluten-free orzo or a similar small gluten-free pasta shape.
What occasions is this salad best for?
It is perfect for summer gatherings, weddings, or as a side dish for grilled meats.
Do I need to peel the pistachios?
The recipe calls for shelled pistachios, so the outer hard shells should be removed before toasting.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, cucumbers or bell peppers would make excellent additions for extra crunch.
What does the salad taste like?
It offers a complex flavor profile that is sweet from the grapes, savory from the garlic, and bright from the lemon and basil.
Can I use a different nut instead of pistachios?
Yes, toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds would also work well in this recipe.
Is the garlic raw in this recipe?
No, the garlic is lightly sautéed for 1-2 minutes to mellow its bite before mixing it into the salad.
Should I season with salt and pepper?
Yes, you should season the salad with salt and pepper to taste just before serving.
Can I prepare the orzo in advance?
Yes, you can cook and chill the orzo ahead of time, but be sure to toss it with a little oil to keep it from sticking.
What texture should the orzo have?
The orzo should be cooked to 'al dente', meaning it should still have a slight firmness when bitten.
Is this salad served hot or cold?
This is a cold pasta salad and is best served chilled.