Orzo Chicken and Fresh Basil Salad
Prep Time
20 minutesCooking Time
15 minutesServing Size
6-8 servings
Ingredients
Pasta: 2 quarts (1.89 L) water 1 bay leaf ¾ tsp (3 mL) dried basil leaves 1 cup (250 mL) orzo pasta Salad: 2 cups (500 mL) cooked, shredded chicken breasts 1 cup (250 mL) Ocean Spray® Craisins® Cherry Juice Infused Dried Cranberries 1 cup (250 mL) sliced cherry tomatoes ½ cup (125 mL) sliced red onion ½ cup (125 mL) chopped fresh parsley ¼ cup(60 mL) chopped fresh basil leaves 2 tbsp (30 mL) capers, drained Dressing: …“ cup (80 mL) Ocean Spray® Diet Cran-Cherry® Low Calorie Beverage 3 tbsp (45 mL) vegetable oil 1 tbsp (15 mL) prepared pesto ½ tsp (2 mL) salt ¾ tsp (3 mL) freshly cracked pepper Mixed nuts, garnish (optional)
Steps
In a 4-quart (3.75L) saucepan add water, bay leaf and dried basil leaves.Bring to a boil; add orzo. Cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente (about 8 to 9 minutes); drain, remove bay leaf and set aside. In large bowl, combine all salad ingredients.Add pasta; toss until well mixed. Meanwhile, add dressing ingredients to a 1-cup (250 mL) glass measure; mix well.Add just enough dressing to coat all ingredients. To serve, place salad on serving plates; garnish with mixed nuts if desired. Refrigerate leftovers. Makes 6 to 8 servings.