Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (190g) whole wheat orzo pasta
  • 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup (130g) cucumber, diced
  • ½ cup (75g) red bell pepper, diced
  • ¼ cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped
  • ¼ cup (15g) fresh basil, chopped
  • ¼ cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons (45ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the whole wheat orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain the orzo in a colander and rinse with cold water to cool.
  4. While the orzo cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and herbs.
  5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, chopped vegetables, and herbs.
  7. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour for flavors to meld.