Are you in search of a refreshing and vibrant salad for summer entertaining? Our friend Nicole Masson at @freshapron has crafted a delectable pasta salad for the Pure Flavor® Summer of Salads! It’s quick to prepare, appeals to a crowd, and offers the perfect opportunity to Go Beyond the Greens!
As a lover of Pure Flavor® produce, I’m thrilled to share my favorite family recipe showcasing the incredible flavor of their RedRoyals® Sweet Cherry Tomatoes On-The-Vine. This Cherry Tomato Orzo Salad has vibrant colors and a refreshing taste, making it a perfect addition to any summer gathering. I knew this recipe would be perfect for the Pure Flavor® Summer of Salads!
In my family, food has always been a centerpiece of our gatherings, a time for us to connect over a delicious meal. This Cherry Tomato Orzo Salad is a dish we love to prepare all summer. Each bite is flavorful and pairs perfectly with grilled meats or just about any warm-weather meal. Now, with the addition of RedRoyals®, this salad has reached new heights of flavor.
Add colour & flavor –
There is a reason why Pure Flavor® RedRoyals® Sweet Cherry Tomatoes On-the-Vine are the star ingredient in this recipe. These special tomatoes add a burst of sweet and juicy goodness to the salad. They’re meticulously grown year-round in a greenhouse, ensuring the highest quality and consistent, exceptional taste. Their vibrant red color and firm texture make them an excellent choice for this dish, as they hold their shape and provide a refreshing contrast to the orzo pasta. With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful burst of flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
Go Beyond the Greens –
Salads don’t always need to be made with traditional greens. By experimenting with different ingredients such as Cherry Tomatoes, orzo, flavorful herbs, and cheeses, you can create a delicious salad that is both versatile and satisfying. The key is to balance the flavors by using a tangy dressing and incorporating natural sweetness from the RedRoyals®. With some creativity and a willingness to try new things, you can go beyond the greens and create a salad that is just as delicious as it is nutritious.
The combination of fresh basil, crumbled feta cheese, and tangy lemon dressing creates this salad’s perfect pairing of flavors. The aromatic basil adds a hint of freshness, while the creamy feta cheese brings a delightful tang. With its zesty notes and sweetness from the honey, the lemon dressing ties all the ingredients together, enhancing the dish’s overall taste. The RedRoyals® Sweet Cherry Tomatoes On-the-Vine act as the centerpiece, lending their natural sweetness and acidity to balance the flavors.
One of my favorite things about this Cherry Tomato Orzo Salad is its versatility. It can serve as a refreshing side dish or a satisfying main course. For a heartier option, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top. You can also experiment with different herbs and cheeses to personalize the flavors. The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together, making it an excellent make-ahead option for gatherings.
Tips for Success
To ensure the perfect execution of this recipe, here are a few tips:
- Cook the orzo pasta al dente to maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Rinse the cooked orzo under cold water to cool it down quickly and stop the cooking process.
- Use a whisk to thoroughly emulsify the lemon dressing, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to your taste preferences, keeping in mind that the feta cheese adds a salty note to the salad.
The RedRoyals® Sweet Cherry Tomatoes On-the-Vine definitely brings this family recipe to life, adding a burst of vibrant flavor and elevating it to new heights. Salads are a great way to combine fresh ingredients and create the unmistakable flavors of summer. So, try this recipe, and savor the mouthwatering flavors that Pure Flavor’s tomatoes bring. Happy cooking!
~ Nicole
