Alexander's Orzo and Wild Rice Salad

Submitted by Mystikal49

"Wonderful blend of flavors makes for a delightful side dish or lunch salad."

 

• Ready In: 20mins
• Ingredients: 24
• Serves: 4

ingredients

• 4 1⁄2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 1⁄2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1⁄2 teaspoon fresh garlic, minced
• 1⁄2 tablespoon French Dijon mustard
• 1⁄2 tablespoon sugar
• 3⁄8 cup canola oil
• 3⁄8 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1⁄2 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• 1⁄8 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄8 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups orzo pasta, cooked
• 1 cup cooked wild rice
• 1⁄4 cup red onion, diced
• 1⁄4 cup currants
• 1⁄8 cup canned corn niblet
• 1⁄4 cup toasted almond
• 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
• 3 tablespoons red peppers, diced
• 3 tablespoons yellow peppers, diced
• 1⁄2 cup green onion, sliced
• 1⁄8 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄8 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic granules
• 1⁄8 cup fresh basil, cut in slivers

directions

1. For dressing: Dissolve vinegar, lemon juice, garlic and sugar with a hand whip (three minute stirring).
2. Fold in the mustard, basil, salt and pepper. Slowly add oils, while whisking vigorously. Refrigerate.
3. Use only 1/2 cup of dressing for salad.
4. Place all other ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix well.
5. Serve ice cold, 38-40°F Shelf life mixed is two hours.

Reviews

[ChefDebs]

I had been looking for a recipe for J.Alexanders restaurants wild rice and orzo side dish...and this was pretty darn close( no basil in the restaurants). I served this as a side at a cook out for my sons college buddies, and this was gobbled down: a lovely change from the usual pasta or rice salad, visually appealing and a delicious blend of textures and flavour.

 

[Babyelephant]

My brother's girlfriend makes this and it is delicious. She uses balsamic vinagrette dressing instead of making her own.

 

[randlspencer]

Excellent! I would double the sugar (1T. instead of 1/2), and definitely include the basil!