Get ready to transform your ordinary lunch into an explosion of Southwestern flavors! This creamy orzo salad is not just a recipe—it's a culinary adventure that combines zesty lime, rich sour cream, and a perfect blend of colorful vegetables that will transport you straight to the vibrant Southwest. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this recipe promises to be your new go-to meal that's as easy to make as it is delicious.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Southwestern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup corn, cooked
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the orzo pasta. In a medium-sized pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add 1 cup of orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the orzo is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Rinse and drain 1/2 cup of black beans, and set aside. Dice 1/2 cup of red bell pepper and 1/4 cup of red onion. Chop 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro, and set all the prepared ingredients aside.
- Once the orzo is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Allow it to drain completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, 1 cup of cooked corn, black beans, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Gently mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the creamy dressing. Combine 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Mix well until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the orzo salad mixture. Gently fold the dressing into the salad until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Once mixed, taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice according to your preference.
- Serve the creamy Southwestern orzo salad immediately, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This salad can be served cold or at room temperature.
- Garnish with additional cilantro or lime wedges if desired before serving. Enjoy your delicious and creamy Southwestern orzo salad!
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook orzo al dente and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent clumping.
- Flavor Boost: For extra depth, consider toasting your corn slightly in a dry skillet before adding it to the salad.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad tastes even better after chilling for an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Customize Your Kick: Adjust the chili powder to control the heat level—add more for spice lovers or reduce for a milder version.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh cilantro and squeeze lime juice just before mixing for the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
- Protein Power: Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn this side dish into a complete meal.
- Storage Tip: The salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
