Orzo Salad With Sesame Dressing

Submitted by ratherbeswimmin

"Great for summer BBQs, family reunions and such."

 

• Ready In: 1hr 8mins
• Ingredients: 18
• Serves: 10

ingredients

• 1 lb orzo pasta, uncooked
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 4 carrots, cut into thin strips
• 2 cups raisins
• 1 cup sunflower seeds, toasted
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons sliced green onions

• Sesame Dressing

• 3⁄4 cup corn oil
• 1⁄2 cup rice vinegar
• 1⁄4 cup sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons grated orange rind
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1⁄2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1⁄4 teaspoon dry crushed red pepper

directions

1. To make dressing: add all dressing ingredients to the container of an electric blender; process until smooth; set aside.
2. Cook the orzo in boiling salted water to cover for about 8 minutes or until tender; drain, rinse, and drain again.
3. In a mixing bowl, toss the orzo and 1 tablespoon sesame oil.
4. Spoon half the orzo mixture into a large glass serving bowl; spread evenly.
5. Top with half the carrot strips, raisins, and sunflower kernels.
6. Repeat layers.
7. Drizzle 1 cup Sesame Dressing over the top.
8. Sprinkle the parsley and green onion evenly over the top.
9. Serve with the remaining Sesame Dressing.

Reviews

[Janis L.]

Never fail recipe - everybody always goes back for seconds. I used to make it in a glass bowl and layered the ingredients because it just looked so darn pretty. But, by the time the third person dug in it didn'tlook gorgeous anymore, so now I just dump everything in the bowl and toss it. Definitely needs to sit overnight to soften and blend the flavors.

 

[route7johnson]

I've made this salad several times. It a great take-to dish. Unusual and healthy ingredients. Also ease to halve. Enjoy!

 

[rochsann]

This was a popular contribution at a family picnic. I think it tastes better the day after it's made. I sprinkled red wine vinegar over it to diminish the sesame oil after I taste-tested it. It seems I'm not a big fan of sesame oil, but by the next day, its flavor had blended in nicely. I love all the healthful ingredients, and I'll make it again! Thanks, NurseDi, for another worthwhile recipe!

 

[LonghornMama]

I was searching to post this and can't believe no one has reviewed it yet!! This is really good with a wonderful sesame flavor, sweet and crunchy, and very pretty when made in a glass bowl. Make it a bit ahead of time so the raisins can plump up a bit. I have to admit I dump the whole dressing recipe over the top and allow time for it to settle through the orzo. Everyone always asks for the recipe. Thanks, NurseDi, for posting!