Orzo with Asparagus & Feta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Orzo Salad Ingredients

01 - 1 cup dry orzo
02 - ½ pound asparagus, spears sliced into 2-inch pieces (about 4 pieces per spear)
03 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
04 - 3 tablespoons lemon juice
05 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
06 - 1 garlic clove, minced or pressed
07 - 1 15-ounce can quartered artichoke hearts in water, drained and sliced in half again
08 - ½ teaspoon kosher salt
09 - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
10 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
12 - ¼ cup roasted, salted pistachios, chopped
13 - ⅓ cup crumbled feta

# Instructions:

01 - Fill a medium-sized pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, generously salt the water. Add the orzo and cook for about 8 minutes or until al dente. Add the asparagus and cook for 1 minute more, then drain.
02 - While the orzo is cooking, add the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to a bowl. Whisk until the mixture is emulsified. Add the chopped artichoke hearts and stir to coat.
03 - Once the orzo and asparagus are ready, drain them thoroughly then add them to the bowl with the dressing. Toss to combine.
04 - Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then stir in the chopped dill, mint, and crumbled feta.
05 - Top the salad with chopped pistachios and additional feta if desired just before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Allow the salad to cool slightly before adding fresh herbs to retain their flavor.
02 - Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor.