Lemon Orzo & Asparagus Salad with Spinach & Feta

This tasty salad puts a unique spin on a typical pasta salad and is packed full of nutrients and flavor. It's also quick & easy and is delicious either hot or cold.  What more could you ask for?  Well, more of it..that's what.

 If you're looking for a great side dish to a summer meal or potluck - I recommend this! 

Lemon Orzo & Asparagus Salad with Spinach and Feta

Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

1 cup orzo

½ tsp. salt for boiling water
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 teaspoon olive oil
8-10 asparagus spears, cut into 1 inch pieces
1 cup packed fresh spinach
Juice of 1 large lemon
1/3 cup feta cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

In a medium sauce pan, bring 4 cups of water to boil. Add the salt. Stir in orzo. Cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain orzo and set aside.

Meanwhile, in a small sauce pan, sauté garlic in olive oil. Add in asparagus pieces. Sauté for 3-4 minutes. Stir in spinach. Cook until asparagus is tender and the spinach shrinks down.

Put the orzo in a medium bowl and add in the vegetables. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the orzo and vegetables. Stir. Season with salt and pepper. Taste-add more lemon juice if you wish.

Sprinkle feta cheese over the top of the salad. Serve warm or cold! 

Recipe adapted from Two Peas and their Pod