Fig Summer Squash Orzo Salad with Yuzu Vinaigrette

 
fig summer squash summer salad - dina.jpg
 

Sides at a bar-b-que can be just as exciting as what is on the grill. Pasta salads are bar-b-que staple. I love the traditional mayonnaise based salad but it has been losing popularity. This fig summer squash orzo salad with yuzu vinaigrette is a fresh new take on the ever loved pasta salad. Giving the figs and squash a quick saute gives them an extra boost of flavor. The yuzu vinaigrette has a sweet but tangy bite to it and is much lighter than mayo. Which makes it perfect for a hot day.

Yuzu vinegar is gold colored vinegar that has a citrus taste to it. It is sometimes referred to as a Japanese lemon. At my grocery store I found in the aisle that holds all the different cooking oils, vinegars, and dressings. You can also purchase it from O Olive Oil and Vinegar. I love citrus notes it adds to marinades and dressings. Try brushing this vinaigrette on your chicken before throwing it on the grill! 

Note: This post is NOT sponsored. I will always disclose when a post is in partnership with a product, person, or company.

Fig Summer Squash Orzo Salad with Yuzu Vinaigrette

Summer squash and fig orzo salad with yuzu vinaigrette is fresh take on a pasta salad. Perfect for your summer bbq's!


ingredients

  • 2 c orzo, cooked according to package directions, set aside

  • 1 c fresh baby spinach, packed

  • 1 c zucchini, sliced and halved

  • 1 c yellow squash

  • 1 c fresh figs, sliced

  • 1/4 c spring onion, chopped

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil

dressing

  • 1 1/2 tbsp yuzu vinegar

  • 1/2 cup olive oil

  • 1/2 tsbp honey

  • 1 tsp kosher salt adjust according to taste

  • 1 tsp black pepper

instructions

  1. Cook orzo according to package directions, drain, and put in a large bowl. While the orzo is still warm, fold in the spinach letting it wilt into the pasta. Set aside.

  2. In large saute pan add a tablespoon of olive oil over a medium heat. Saute the spring onions for 2 minutes then add in the cut squash, sauteing until they begin the become soft. It takes about 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and them a mix in the pan.

  3. Add in the sliced figs and let them warm through in the pan. Be gently with the figs as they may fall apart a bit but warming them through in the pan gives them a little bit of caramelization.

Salad, Sidedishitgirlfigs, squash, orzo, holiday dish, lets gather dish, healthy dish, summer dishComment