White Bean and Orzo Salad with Asparagus

By Dglmedia

Ingredients

• Bean: 2 cups white beans
• Cooked grain: 2 cups cooked orzo
• Cooked/raw vegetables: 1 1/2 cups each steamed or broiled asparagus and raw red pepper
• Extra: 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts
• Onion: 1/4 sweet white onion, sliced thin
• Herb: 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
• Dressing: 1/3 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Preparation

Step 1

Prepare beans and, following package instructions, cook grains; place in a large bowl.

Meanwhile, prepare cooked and/or raw vegetables; add to bowl.

Prepare extras, slice onions and chop herbs; add to bowl.

When ready to serve, drizzle salad with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste; toss to coat. Add vinegar or lemon juice; toss to coat again. Adjust seasonings and serve.

Or, simply add your favorite vinaigrette (see note above) and toss to coat.

YIELD: Serves 4 as a main course, and 6 to 8 as a side dish.
Per serving (based on 4 servings): 354 calories, 51g carbohydrates, 16g protein, 14g fat (2g saturated), 0mg cholesterol, 10mg fiber, 650mg sodium