Description

A vibrant Summer Orzo Pasta Salad filled with fresh vegetables, crispy smoked turkey bacon, and a zesty plant-based yogurt dressing. This refreshing and light dish is served chilled, making it perfect for warm days and casual gatherings. Featuring a balance of creamy tanginess, smoky flavors, and crisp textures, it comes together quickly in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Base

1 ½ cups orzo pasta
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup red bell pepper, chopped
3 green onions, thinly sliced
4 slices smoked turkey bacon, cooked and chopped
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing

½ cup Greek-style plant-based yogurt
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (natural)
3 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (natural)
1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
½ teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta until just tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and keep the pasta from sticking. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Veggies and Bacon: Dice the cucumbers, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the red bell pepper, and thinly slice the green onions. Cook the smoked turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek-style plant-based yogurt, apple cider vinegar (natural), olive oil (natural), Dijon mustard (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), garlic powder (natural), salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cooked turkey bacon, and chopped vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for added freshness.

Notes

Avoid overcooking the orzo to maintain a firm, al dente texture.
Chilling the salad enhances the flavor and gives a refreshing finish.
Cook turkey bacon until just crispy to add crunch without bitterness.
Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust acidity or seasoning as desired.
Add fresh herbs just before serving to preserve their vibrant flavor and color.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 280
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: summer salad, orzo salad, pasta salad, gluten free pasta salad, plant-based dressing, quick salad, light meal, smoked turkey bacon salad