Zesty Black Bean and Orzo Salad
This Zesty Black Bean and Orzo Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion. Combining protein-packed black beans with tender orzo and fresh vegetables, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Tossed in a zesty lime dressing, it makes for a refreshing side dish or a satisfying main course. Enjoy the medley of textures and tastes including creamy olives, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy green onions, all under a bright cilantro finish. This dish is ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch at home.
6
Servings
200
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
black beans
2 cans (rinsed and drained (or 4 cups freshly cooked))
ripe olives
1/2 cup (sliced and drained)
medium tomatoes
2 (seeded and chopped)
green onion
1/4 cup (chopped)
fresh cilantro
1/4 cup (chopped)
olive oil
2 tablespoons (as dressing)
lime juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
ground cumin
1 teaspoon (as seasoning)
black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (freshly ground)
salt
1/8 teaspoon (to taste)
orzo pasta
1 1/2 cups (cooked)
fresh spinach
4 cups (washed and torn)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, sliced olives, chopped tomatoes, green onions, and fresh cilantro.
2
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt until well blended.
3
Pour the dressing over the black bean mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
4
Fold in the cooked orzo pasta carefully to avoid breaking the pasta.
5
Cover the salad and let it sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
6
When ready to serve, place a generous handful of fresh spinach on each plate and top with the black bean and orzo salad. Enjoy as a vibrant side dish or a hearty main course!
Nutrition Information
8.3g
Fat
8g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Black Bean and Orzo Salad?
It is a vibrant, nutritious dish combining protein-packed black beans, tender orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables tossed in a zesty lime dressing.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What are the main ingredients in this salad?
The main ingredients include black beans, ripe olives, tomatoes, green onions, fresh cilantro, orzo pasta, and fresh spinach.
Can I use freshly cooked black beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use 4 cups of freshly cooked black beans as a substitute for the 2 cans mentioned in the recipe.
How many calories are in one serving of this salad?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
What type of dressing is used?
The dressing is a zesty lime vinaigrette made from olive oil, fresh lime juice, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt.
How much protein is in each serving?
There are 8 grams of protein per serving.
Does this salad contain healthy fats?
Yes, it contains 8.3g of fat, primarily from olive oil and olives.
How long should the salad sit before serving?
The salad should sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
What is orzo pasta?
Orzo is a thin, oval, rice-shaped pasta often used in salads and soups.
How should I prepare the tomatoes?
The tomatoes should be seeded and chopped before being added to the mixture.
Can I substitute the cilantro?
If you are not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh flat-leaf parsley.
How do I serve the salad with spinach?
Place a generous handful of fresh, washed, and torn spinach on each plate and top it with the black bean and orzo mixture.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is excellent for making ahead as the flavors develop over time when allowed to sit.
Is this salad served hot or cold?
This salad is typically served at room temperature or chilled.
What kind of olives are recommended?
The recipe calls for ripe olives, which should be sliced and drained.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Certainly! Diced bell peppers or corn would make great additions to the flavor profile.
What is the best way to cook the orzo?
Boil the orzo in salted water until al dente, drain it, and let it cool slightly before folding it into the salad.
Is there a lot of salt in this recipe?
No, the recipe only uses about 1/8 teaspoon of salt, though you can adjust it to your preference.
Can I use lemon juice instead of lime juice?
While lime juice provides the 'zesty' flavor, lemon juice can be used as a substitute if needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, no, because orzo is made from wheat. You can make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free orzo or substituting with quinoa.
Can I add a protein like chicken to this salad?
Yes, grilled chicken or shrimp would pair very well with these flavors for a more substantial meal.
What seasoning provides the earthy flavor?
The ground cumin in the dressing provides a warm, earthy undertone to the salad.
Is the spinach mixed into the salad?
No, the instructions suggest using the spinach as a base on the plate rather than mixing it in.
What is the serving size?
While the specific serving size in cups isn't listed, the recipe is designed to be divided into 6 equal portions.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe uses a total of 12 distinct ingredients.
Is this salad spicy?
No, it is flavorful and zesty but not spicy. You can add red pepper flakes if you prefer heat.
Can I use different beans?
Yes, kidney beans or chickpeas would work well if you don't have black beans on hand.