The creamy Orzo and Vegetable Salad with Creamy Vegan Honey Mustard dressing is a copycat version of some restaurant-style honey mustard dressings and pairs really well with the caramelized carrots and brussel sprouts.
This healthy, protein-packed pasta salad is the ultimate quick and easy meal prep recipe! We have made with tender orzo, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, dairy-free honey mustard dressing, this gluten-free, plant-based salad is perfect for a light lunch, high-fiber dinner, or refreshing summer side dish. This dish is packed with nutrient-rich ingredients, bold flavors, and a zesty, protein-rich dressing, this easy vegan salad is a must-try for weight-loss-friendly, high-protein, and gut-healthy eating!
Ingredients.
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
1 tsp olive oil
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/2 tsp kosher salt, divided
1/2 tsp garlic powder, divided
1 tsp dried parsley
1/2 lb. brussel sprouts quartered (or halved if small)
1 cup thinly sliced carrots
1 tbsp avocado oil
1/2 of a large shallot, finely chopped
1/4 tsp each pepper and paprika
1/2 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
4 to 5 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
1/4 cup sliced almonds
Lemon wedges for serving
Creamy Vegan Honey Mustard Dressing:
1/4 cup vegan mayo
4 tsp dijon mustard
2 tbsp agave nectar
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/8 tsp kosher salt
Method.
First, cook the orzo in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well. Transfer the orzo to a large mixing bowl.
Next, add 1 teaspoon olive oil, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon dried parsley. Gently stir to combine.
Meanwhile, heat a large pan over medium heat. Add the avocado oil, carrots, and Brussels sprouts. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes.
Then, add the shallots and the remaining ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Add pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir well. Cover the pan and cook for 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the Brussels sprouts are fork-tender.
Afterward, add the cooked vegetables to the bowl with the orzo. Next, add the tomatoes, parsley, and almonds. Gently stir to combine.
In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing. Then, transfer the orzo salad to a serving dish. Top with fresh basil. Drizzle with the dressing as desired.
Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning. Squeeze in extra lemon juice if needed.
Benefits:
First, this orzo and vegetable salad is packed with fresh vegetables, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support overall health.
Additionally, the creamy vegan honey mustard dressing adds rich flavor without dairy, making the salad suitable for plant-based and dairy-free diets.
Moreover, orzo adds a satisfying texture and provides energy, making this salad filling enough to enjoy as a main dish or hearty side.
Furthermore, this recipe is easy to prepare and comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
In addition, the salad is versatile and can be served warm or cold, making it ideal for lunches, picnics, or potlucks.
Finally, this orzo and vegetable salad stores well, allowing you to enjoy healthy leftovers throughout the week.
