Orzo Salad with Broccoli and Radicchio
A balanced pasta salad featuring salty, sweet, and bitter notes
Why This Recipe Works
This hearty salad balances the bitterness of radicchio with sweet honey and salty sun-dried tomatoes. Cooking the orzo in the same water used to blanch the broccoli infuses the pasta with a subtle, vegetal depth.
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook until bright green and tender-crisp, about 2 minutes. Transfer the broccoli to a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking, then drain well and pat dry.
Return the water to a boil and add the orzo. Cook until completely tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the orzo but leave it slightly wetβavoid shaking the colander too much so the residual moisture can prevent the salad from drying out.
Whisk the sun-dried tomato packing oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, honey, and olive oil in a large bowl until combined. Add the warm orzo, broccoli, radicchio, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and pine nuts to the bowl and toss thoroughly. The heat from the pasta will slightly wilt the radicchio and help the dressing coat every surface.
Stir in the basil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, while the flavors are bright and the radicchio is still vibrant.
π½οΈ Complete the Meal
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this recipe?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature before serving.