Crab & Green Pea Barilla Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon & Italian Parsley
Crab & Green Pea Barilla Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon & Italian Parsley
Bright, fresh and Veneto-inspired, this Barilla Orzo pasta salad is made for summer entertaining.
25 minutes total
- Beginner
- Black Pepper
- Entrée
- Garlic
- High Protein
- Italian Heritage Month
- Mini and Soup
- Parsley
- Peas
- Seafood
- Summer and Pasta Salad Recipes
Inspired by the coastal flavours of Veneto, this Crab and Green Pea Barilla Orzo Pasta Salad combines delicate crab meat, sweet green peas, bright lemon, and fresh parsley with perfectly al dente Barilla Orzo pasta. Light yet hearty, this refreshing pasta salad is ideal for summer entertaining, outdoor gatherings, or an easy Mediterranean-inspired lunch.
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Ingredients
Serves 6
| 2 cups | Barilla Orzo pasta |
| 1 cup | green peas, fresh or frozen |
| Zest of 1 lemon | |
| 3 tbsp | fresh lemon juice |
| 1 | small shallot, very finely minced |
| 1 | small garlic clove, grated |
| To taste | salt and freshly cracked black pepper |
| ⅓ cup | extra virgin olive oil |
| 200 g | fresh lump crab meat |
| ¼ cup | finely chopped Italian parsley |
Optional, but recommend:
| ¼ teaspoon | chili flakes (subtle heat) |
| 2 tablespoons | finely diced celery (added crunch) |
Disclaimer
Individuals with allergies or specific dietary concerns should verify that the ingredients they utilize for the recipes comply with their restrictions.
Method
Step 1
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to boil. Cook the Barilla Orzo pasta according to package instructions, or until al dente.
Step 2
Drain and immediately spread pasta on a tray or large plate to cool slightly.
Step 3
Blanch peas by dropping them into boiling water for about 1 minute, then transfer straight into ice water to lock in that bright green colour. Drain and set aside.
Step 4
In a large mixing bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, shallot, garlic, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using.
Step 5
Slowly whisk in the olive oil until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning. It should be bright and slightly punchy since it will mellow once combined.
Step 6
Add the cooled orzo to the bowl and toss gently so it absorbs the dressing.
Step 7
Fold in the crab meat carefully to keep chunks intact. Then add the peas, parsley, and celery, if using. Toss gently again.
Step 8
Let the salad sit for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to come together.
Step 9
Finish with an extra drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon, and more parsley right before serving.
Orzo
Orzo is a small, rice-like pasta that adds Mediterranean flair to any dish. Its versatility shines in soups and salads, making it a go-to option for Canadian cooks looking to infuse their meals with a touch of premium, Mediterranean charm.
- Shape Mini and Soup
- Cook time 9 mins
- Pack size 340 g
- Range Classic Blue Box
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