DisclaimerTerms Of UseGDPR PolicyCookie Policy

Home Cooking Style

Creamy Broccoli Orzo Salad Fresh and Flavorful Dish

by
- 1 cup orzo pasta - 2 cups broccoli florets - 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved You need some key parts to make this creamy broccoli orzo salad. First, orzo pasta is the base. It cooks up nice and soft, perfect for this dish. Next, add fresh broccoli florets. They give a nice crunch and bright color. Don’t forget the cherry tomatoes. They add a sweet burst of flavor that makes every bite special. - 1/2 cup Greek yogurt - 1 tablespoon mayonnaise - 1 tablespoon lemon juice The dressing brings everything together. I use Greek yogurt for creaminess. It’s thick and tangy. A bit of mayonnaise makes it richer. The lemon juice adds a bright zing that lifts the flavors. This dressing is simple yet tasty. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - Fresh parsley, chopped Seasoning is key to great taste. Garlic powder adds depth without being too strong. A bit of salt enhances all the flavors. Finally, fresh parsley gives a pop of color. It also adds a fresh taste on top. These ingredients mix together to create a fresh and flavorful dish that is hard to resist. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Bring salted water to a boil. - Add 1 cup of orzo pasta. - Cook orzo until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Cooking orzo is simple. You want it firm but not hard. Make sure to stir it often. This helps prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander. Let it cool while you prepare the other ingredients. - Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. - Plunge in ice bath for one minute. To keep the broccoli bright green, blanch it. This means cooking it quickly in hot water. The ice bath stops the cooking. It keeps the florets crisp and colorful. After chilling, drain the broccoli well. Set it aside with the orzo. - In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. The dressing is creamy and tangy. Greek yogurt adds protein and richness. Mayonnaise brings more creaminess. Lemon juice adds brightness. Whisk until smooth. Taste it and adjust if needed. A pinch more salt can enhance the flavor. - In a large mixing bowl, mix orzo, blanched broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. - Toss with dressing until well coated. Now, combine all the ingredients in a big bowl. Add the orzo, broccoli, 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes, and 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss gently so everything gets coated. - If desired, sprinkle 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and toss gently. - Chill for at least 30 minutes and garnish with parsley before serving. For extra flavor, add Parmesan cheese. It gives a salty, nutty taste. Toss it lightly. Then, refrigerate the salad. Chilling helps the flavors blend. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your tasty salad! - How to avoid mushy orzo: To keep your orzo firm, cook it until al dente. This means it should still have a slight bite. Always follow the package instructions for timing. After cooking, drain it right away and let it cool. - Blanching broccoli for optimal color and texture: Blanching helps keep broccoli bright and crisp. Boil the florets for just 2-3 minutes. Then, place them in an ice bath. This stops the cooking and locks in the color. - Alternatives to Greek yogurt: If you want a lighter dressing, try using sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt. These options still give creaminess without the extra calories. - Adjusting seasoning to taste: After mixing your dressing, taste it! Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to match your flavor. Everyone's palate is different, so make it your own. - Best served chilled: For the best flavor, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors blend nicely and makes it refreshing to eat. - Complementary dishes to pair with the salad: This salad goes well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it with a light soup for a full meal. Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Orzo: To achieve the best texture, cook the orzo just until al dente. This will ensure it remains slightly firm and does not become mushy when mixed with the dressing. Bright Green Broccoli: After blanching the broccoli, immediately plunge it into ice water. This stops the cooking process and preserves that vibrant green color, making your salad visually appealing. Flavor-Balancing Dressing: Feel free to adjust the acidity by adding more lemon juice or a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors in the dressing. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance. Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Make it in advance for gatherings to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. {{image_2}} For a gluten-free option, try brown rice pasta or quinoa. Both options give a nice texture. You can also use spiralized veggies, like zucchini, for a lighter dish. Feel free to mix in different veggies too. Peas, bell peppers, and carrots can brighten up the salad. Just chop them small so they blend well with the orzo and broccoli. Want more flavor? Add fresh herbs like basil or dill. They bring a fresh taste and smell. You could also try spices like cayenne for a kick or smoked paprika for depth. Adding protein can make this salad more filling. Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even diced tofu work great. They add a nice contrast to the creamy dressing. If you want a vegan dressing, swap Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt. Use vegan mayo to keep it creamy. Lemon juice adds freshness, which is key in vegan cooking. For a low-calorie version, cut back on the yogurt and mayo. You can also skip the cheese or use a small amount. This keeps the flavor without too many calories. To keep your salad fresh, use airtight containers. Glass containers work well. They help prevent spills and keep flavors intact. You can also use plastic containers, but make sure they seal tightly. Store your Creamy Broccoli Orzo Salad in the fridge right after eating. Always make sure it cools down before you store it. You can freeze Creamy Broccoli Orzo Salad, but it may change texture. The orzo and broccoli may become mushy after thawing. If you decide to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. When reheating, use the microwave or stovetop. Add a little water to help maintain moisture. Heat until warm, but don’t overcook. In the fridge, your salad will last about 3 to 5 days. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you see mold or a sour smell, it’s best to toss it out. Fresh ingredients keep your salad tasty, so don’t wait too long to dig in! Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. Prepare it a few hours before serving. Chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend well. What can I substitute for orzo pasta? You can use other small pasta like ditalini or quinoa for a gluten-free option. Both will work well in this salad. Choose what you enjoy most. Is this salad healthy? Yes, this salad is healthy. It features fresh veggies and Greek yogurt. Broccoli adds vitamins and fiber. The salad is balanced and nutritious. How many calories are in Creamy Broccoli Orzo Salad? This salad has about 300 calories per serving. This can vary based on the cheese you add. Check the ingredients for exact numbers. What can I serve this salad with? Serve this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables. Enjoy it at picnics or barbecues too. Is this salad suitable for meal prep? Yes, this salad is great for meal prep. Store it in airtight containers. It lasts up to three days in the fridge, making it perfect for lunches. You now have a clear path to making a tasty Creamy Broccoli Orzo Salad. We discussed the key ingredients and dressing components, and I provided step-by-step cooking instructions. Tips helped you perfect the dish, while variations open doors for new flavors. Remember, store your leftovers properly to enjoy them later. This salad is not just delicious; it’s a healthy choice too. Experiment with your own twists, and enjoy sharing this dish with others. Your kitchen adventure starts now—let's get cooking!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Do you want a fresh, tasty dish that’s easy to make? My Creamy Broccoli Orzo Salad checks all the boxes! Bursting with vibrant veggies and a creamy dressing, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner. This dish is not only colorful but also packed with flavor. I’ll guide you through the steps, tips, and variations to make it just right. Let’s get cooking and enjoy this delightful salad together!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Fresh and Healthy: This salad is packed with nutritious ingredients like broccoli and cherry tomatoes, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
  2. Creamy Dressing: The combination of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise creates a rich, creamy dressing that perfectly coats the orzo and veggies.
  3. Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.
  4. Customizable: This recipe is versatile; feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own!

Ingredients

Main ingredients

– 1 cup orzo pasta

– 2 cups broccoli florets

– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

You need some key parts to make this creamy broccoli orzo salad. First, orzo pasta is the base. It cooks up nice and soft, perfect for this dish. Next, add fresh broccoli florets. They give a nice crunch and bright color. Don’t forget the cherry tomatoes. They add a sweet burst of flavor that makes every bite special.

Dressing components

– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise

– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

The dressing brings everything together. I use Greek yogurt for creaminess. It’s thick and tangy. A bit of mayonnaise makes it richer. The lemon juice adds a bright zing that lifts the flavors. This dressing is simple yet tasty.

Seasoning and garnish

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– Fresh parsley, chopped

Seasoning is key to great taste. Garlic powder adds depth without being too strong. A bit of salt enhances all the flavors. Finally, fresh parsley gives a pop of color. It also adds a fresh taste on top.

These ingredients mix together to create a fresh and flavorful dish that is hard to resist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the orzo

– Bring salted water to a boil.

– Add 1 cup of orzo pasta.

– Cook orzo until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Cooking orzo is simple. You want it firm but not hard. Make sure to stir it often. This helps prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander. Let it cool while you prepare the other ingredients.

Preparing the broccoli

– Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes.

– Plunge in ice bath for one minute.

To keep the broccoli bright green, blanch it. This means cooking it quickly in hot water. The ice bath stops the cooking. It keeps the florets crisp and colorful. After chilling, drain the broccoli well. Set it aside with the orzo.

Making the dressing

– In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

The dressing is creamy and tangy. Greek yogurt adds protein and richness. Mayonnaise brings more creaminess. Lemon juice adds brightness. Whisk until smooth. Taste it and adjust if needed. A pinch more salt can enhance the flavor.

Combining the salad

– In a large mixing bowl, mix orzo, blanched broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.

– Toss with dressing until well coated.

Now, combine all the ingredients in a big bowl. Add the orzo, broccoli, 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes, and 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss gently so everything gets coated.

Final touches

– If desired, sprinkle 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and toss gently.

– Chill for at least 30 minutes and garnish with parsley before serving.

For extra flavor, add Parmesan cheese. It gives a salty, nutty taste. Toss it lightly. Then, refrigerate the salad. Chilling helps the flavors blend. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your tasty salad!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking tips

– How to avoid mushy orzo:

To keep your orzo firm, cook it until al dente. This means it should still have a slight bite. Always follow the package instructions for timing. After cooking, drain it right away and let it cool.

– Blanching broccoli for optimal color and texture:

Blanching helps keep broccoli bright and crisp. Boil the florets for just 2-3 minutes. Then, place them in an ice bath. This stops the cooking and locks in the color.

Perfecting the dressing

– Alternatives to Greek yogurt:

If you want a lighter dressing, try using sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt. These options still give creaminess without the extra calories.

– Adjusting seasoning to taste:

After mixing your dressing, taste it! Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to match your flavor. Everyone’s palate is different, so make it your own.

Serving suggestions

– Best served chilled:

For the best flavor, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors blend nicely and makes it refreshing to eat.

– Complementary dishes to pair with the salad:

This salad goes well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it with a light soup for a full meal.

Pro Tips

  1. Perfectly Cooked Orzo: To achieve the best texture, cook the orzo just until al dente. This will ensure it remains slightly firm and does not become mushy when mixed with the dressing.
  2. Bright Green Broccoli: After blanching the broccoli, immediately plunge it into ice water. This stops the cooking process and preserves that vibrant green color, making your salad visually appealing.
  3. Flavor-Balancing Dressing: Feel free to adjust the acidity by adding more lemon juice or a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors in the dressing. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
  4. Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Make it in advance for gatherings to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Variations

Ingredient substitutions

For a gluten-free option, try brown rice pasta or quinoa. Both options give a nice texture. You can also use spiralized veggies, like zucchini, for a lighter dish.

Feel free to mix in different veggies too. Peas, bell peppers, and carrots can brighten up the salad. Just chop them small so they blend well with the orzo and broccoli.

Flavor enhancements

Want more flavor? Add fresh herbs like basil or dill. They bring a fresh taste and smell. You could also try spices like cayenne for a kick or smoked paprika for depth.

Adding protein can make this salad more filling. Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even diced tofu work great. They add a nice contrast to the creamy dressing.

Dietary modifications

If you want a vegan dressing, swap Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt. Use vegan mayo to keep it creamy. Lemon juice adds freshness, which is key in vegan cooking.

For a low-calorie version, cut back on the yogurt and mayo. You can also skip the cheese or use a small amount. This keeps the flavor without too many calories.

Storage Info

How to store leftovers

To keep your salad fresh, use airtight containers. Glass containers work well. They help prevent spills and keep flavors intact. You can also use plastic containers, but make sure they seal tightly. Store your Creamy Broccoli Orzo Salad in the fridge right after eating. Always make sure it cools down before you store it.

Freezing considerations

You can freeze Creamy Broccoli Orzo Salad, but it may change texture. The orzo and broccoli may become mushy after thawing. If you decide to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight.

When reheating, use the microwave or stovetop. Add a little water to help maintain moisture. Heat until warm, but don’t overcook.

Shelf life

In the fridge, your salad will last about 3 to 5 days. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you see mold or a sour smell, it’s best to toss it out. Fresh ingredients keep your salad tasty, so don’t wait too long to dig in!

FAQs

Common questions about the recipe

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. Prepare it a few hours before serving. Chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend well.

What can I substitute for orzo pasta?

You can use other small pasta like ditalini or quinoa for a gluten-free option. Both will work well in this salad. Choose what you enjoy most.

Nutrition-related inquiries

Is this salad healthy?

Yes, this salad is healthy. It features fresh veggies and Greek yogurt. Broccoli adds vitamins and fiber. The salad is balanced and nutritious.

How many calories are in Creamy Broccoli Orzo Salad?

This salad has about 300 calories per serving. This can vary based on the cheese you add. Check the ingredients for exact numbers.

Serving suggestions

What can I serve this salad with?

Serve this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables. Enjoy it at picnics or barbecues too.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad is great for meal prep. Store it in airtight containers. It lasts up to three days in the fridge, making it perfect for lunches.

You now have a clear path to making a tasty Creamy Broccoli Orzo Salad. We discussed the key ingredients and dressing components, and I provided step-by-step cooking instructions. Tips helped you perfect the dish, while variations open doors for new flavors. Remember, store your leftovers properly to enjoy them later. This salad is not just delicious; it’s a healthy choice too. Experiment with your own twists, and enjoy sharing this dish with others. Your kitchen adventure starts now—let’s get cookin

- 1 cup orzo pasta - 2 cups broccoli florets - 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved You need some key parts to make this creamy broccoli orzo salad. First, orzo pasta is the base. It cooks up nice and soft, perfect for this dish. Next, add fresh broccoli florets. They give a nice crunch and bright color. Don’t forget the cherry tomatoes. They add a sweet burst of flavor that makes every bite special. - 1/2 cup Greek yogurt - 1 tablespoon mayonnaise - 1 tablespoon lemon juice The dressing brings everything together. I use Greek yogurt for creaminess. It’s thick and tangy. A bit of mayonnaise makes it richer. The lemon juice adds a bright zing that lifts the flavors. This dressing is simple yet tasty. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - Fresh parsley, chopped Seasoning is key to great taste. Garlic powder adds depth without being too strong. A bit of salt enhances all the flavors. Finally, fresh parsley gives a pop of color. It also adds a fresh taste on top. These ingredients mix together to create a fresh and flavorful dish that is hard to resist. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Bring salted water to a boil. - Add 1 cup of orzo pasta. - Cook orzo until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Cooking orzo is simple. You want it firm but not hard. Make sure to stir it often. This helps prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander. Let it cool while you prepare the other ingredients. - Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. - Plunge in ice bath for one minute. To keep the broccoli bright green, blanch it. This means cooking it quickly in hot water. The ice bath stops the cooking. It keeps the florets crisp and colorful. After chilling, drain the broccoli well. Set it aside with the orzo. - In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. The dressing is creamy and tangy. Greek yogurt adds protein and richness. Mayonnaise brings more creaminess. Lemon juice adds brightness. Whisk until smooth. Taste it and adjust if needed. A pinch more salt can enhance the flavor. - In a large mixing bowl, mix orzo, blanched broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. - Toss with dressing until well coated. Now, combine all the ingredients in a big bowl. Add the orzo, broccoli, 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes, and 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss gently so everything gets coated. - If desired, sprinkle 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and toss gently. - Chill for at least 30 minutes and garnish with parsley before serving. For extra flavor, add Parmesan cheese. It gives a salty, nutty taste. Toss it lightly. Then, refrigerate the salad. Chilling helps the flavors blend. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your tasty salad! - How to avoid mushy orzo: To keep your orzo firm, cook it until al dente. This means it should still have a slight bite. Always follow the package instructions for timing. After cooking, drain it right away and let it cool. - Blanching broccoli for optimal color and texture: Blanching helps keep broccoli bright and crisp. Boil the florets for just 2-3 minutes. Then, place them in an ice bath. This stops the cooking and locks in the color. - Alternatives to Greek yogurt: If you want a lighter dressing, try using sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt. These options still give creaminess without the extra calories. - Adjusting seasoning to taste: After mixing your dressing, taste it! Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to match your flavor. Everyone's palate is different, so make it your own. - Best served chilled: For the best flavor, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors blend nicely and makes it refreshing to eat. - Complementary dishes to pair with the salad: This salad goes well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it with a light soup for a full meal. Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Orzo: To achieve the best texture, cook the orzo just until al dente. This will ensure it remains slightly firm and does not become mushy when mixed with the dressing. Bright Green Broccoli: After blanching the broccoli, immediately plunge it into ice water. This stops the cooking process and preserves that vibrant green color, making your salad visually appealing. Flavor-Balancing Dressing: Feel free to adjust the acidity by adding more lemon juice or a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors in the dressing. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance. Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Make it in advance for gatherings to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. {{image_2}} For a gluten-free option, try brown rice pasta or quinoa. Both options give a nice texture. You can also use spiralized veggies, like zucchini, for a lighter dish. Feel free to mix in different veggies too. Peas, bell peppers, and carrots can brighten up the salad. Just chop them small so they blend well with the orzo and broccoli. Want more flavor? Add fresh herbs like basil or dill. They bring a fresh taste and smell. You could also try spices like cayenne for a kick or smoked paprika for depth. Adding protein can make this salad more filling. Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even diced tofu work great. They add a nice contrast to the creamy dressing. If you want a vegan dressing, swap Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt. Use vegan mayo to keep it creamy. Lemon juice adds freshness, which is key in vegan cooking. For a low-calorie version, cut back on the yogurt and mayo. You can also skip the cheese or use a small amount. This keeps the flavor without too many calories. To keep your salad fresh, use airtight containers. Glass containers work well. They help prevent spills and keep flavors intact. You can also use plastic containers, but make sure they seal tightly. Store your Creamy Broccoli Orzo Salad in the fridge right after eating. Always make sure it cools down before you store it. You can freeze Creamy Broccoli Orzo Salad, but it may change texture. The orzo and broccoli may become mushy after thawing. If you decide to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. When reheating, use the microwave or stovetop. Add a little water to help maintain moisture. Heat until warm, but don’t overcook. In the fridge, your salad will last about 3 to 5 days. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you see mold or a sour smell, it’s best to toss it out. Fresh ingredients keep your salad tasty, so don’t wait too long to dig in! Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. Prepare it a few hours before serving. Chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend well. What can I substitute for orzo pasta? You can use other small pasta like ditalini or quinoa for a gluten-free option. Both will work well in this salad. Choose what you enjoy most. Is this salad healthy? Yes, this salad is healthy. It features fresh veggies and Greek yogurt. Broccoli adds vitamins and fiber. The salad is balanced and nutritious. How many calories are in Creamy Broccoli Orzo Salad? This salad has about 300 calories per serving. This can vary based on the cheese you add. Check the ingredients for exact numbers. What can I serve this salad with? Serve this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables. Enjoy it at picnics or barbecues too. Is this salad suitable for meal prep? Yes, this salad is great for meal prep. Store it in airtight containers. It lasts up to three days in the fridge, making it perfect for lunches. You now have a clear path to making a tasty Creamy Broccoli Orzo Salad. We discussed the key ingredients and dressing components, and I provided step-by-step cooking instructions. Tips helped you perfect the dish, while variations open doors for new flavors. Remember, store your leftovers properly to enjoy them later. This salad is not just delicious; it’s a healthy choice too. Experiment with your own twists, and enjoy sharing this dish with others. Your kitchen adventure starts now—let's get cooking!

Creamy Broccoli Orzo Salad

A refreshing salad featuring orzo pasta, blanched broccoli, and a creamy dressing.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 cup Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
  • Blanch the Broccoli: While the orzo is cooking, bring a separate pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and plunge into an ice bath for a minute to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
  • Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
  • Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, blanched broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to coat.
  • Add Cheese and Serve: If using, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and give it one final gentle toss.
  • Chill and Garnish: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

Chill before serving for best flavor.
Keyword broccoli, creamy, orzo, salad, vegetarian

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating