Orzo Kale Lemon Vinaigrette (Print Version)

Tender orzo, kale, and spinach tossed with Parmesan, pumpkin seeds, olives, and lemony vinaigrette.

# Ingredients:

→ Salad

01 - 1 cup dry orzo
02 - 2 packed cups chopped kale
03 - 2 packed cups chopped spinach
04 - 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
05 - 1/3 cup pumpkin seeds
06 - 1/3 cup marinated olives, sliced

→ Lemon Vinaigrette

07 - 1/4 cup olive oil
08 - Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
09 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
10 - 1 garlic clove, crushed
11 - 1 teaspoon honey
12 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
13 - Salt and pepper, to taste

# Steps:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook for 8 to 12 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. Drain thoroughly and let cool for 10 minutes.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped kale, chopped spinach, cooled orzo, shaved Parmesan, pumpkin seeds, and sliced marinated olives.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, crushed garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper until vinaigrette is emulsified.
04 - Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.

# Notes:

01 - For enhanced tenderness, gently massage the chopped kale with a drizzle of vinaigrette before combining with the rest of the ingredients.