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Lunch | Side

Orzo Pasta Salad with Veggies

  • 10 Mins

    Prep Time

  • 10 Mins

    Cook Time

  • 4

    Servings

  • 312

    Calories

  • 10g

    Fat

  • 47g

    Carbs

  • 13g

    Protein

Recommended For:

Rheumatoid Arthritis

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb Fresh Asparagus, washed, woody ends removed, and cut into thirds
  • 1 Cup Dried Orzo Pasta
  • ½ Cup Cherry Tomatoes, washed and halved
  • ¼ Cup Pesto
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste

What You’ll Need

  • Knife

  • Cutting Board

  • Large Saucepan

  • Spoon

  • Colander

  • Measuring Cups

  • NNuts:

    Make or purchase a pesto that does not contain nuts

  • DDairy:

    Make or purchase a pesto that does not contain Parmesan cheese

  • GGluten:

    Choose a small, gluten-free pasta

Instructions

  • 1.

    Wash Hands Wash hands with soap and water.

  • 2.

    Boil Water for Asparagus Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan. Once water is boiling, add the asparagus and allow to cook for 3 minutes.

  • 3.

    Add Orzo Add the orzo to the saucepan with asparagus and cook according to package directions, about 7 minutes.

  • 4.

    Drain and Add Pesto Drain the pasta and the asparagus and return to the pot. Add the pesto and tomatoes and mix until well coated. Season with salt and pepper, as desired.

  • 5.

    Serve and Enjoy Serve pasta salad warm or chilled. Enjoy!

  • 6.

    Wash Hands Wash hands with soap and water.

Recipe Created by Meijer Registered Dietitians

Nourishment Notes

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene. Lycopene has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, a condition common in those with RA.

Asparagus

Asparagus is packed with nutrients, including folate, vitamin K and fiber. Asparagus is also high in antioxidants, which may help to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of heart disease, a condition common in those with RA.

RA Cooking Tips

  • Asparagus

    Add frozen asparagus tips to the boiling water instead of prepping fresh asparagus.

  • Tomatoes

    Add whole cherry tomatoes instead of halving tomatoes.

  • Make it a Meal

    Add pre-cooked chicken to the pasta salad to increase the protein content and make it a meal!

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