High-Protein Orzo Pesto Salad

This High-Protein Orzo, Pesto, Avocado Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish packed with fiber, healthy fats, and protein. It's fresh, zesty, and sure to leave you feeling full and satisfied. Perfect for those focusing on iron intake!

Author Sarah Cobacho (plantbaes.com)

PREP TIME10

COOK TIME10

TOTAL TIME20

Servings 2

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian-Inspired

Keyword 20 mins or less, avocado, basil, Easy Vegan Dish, garlic, High-Protein Meal, Iron-rich, lemon, lentils, nutrient-dense, quick and easy, spinach, tomato, walnuts, zucchini

Ingredients

1 zucchini sliced in pieces of about 0.5 inch (1.5 cm) thick
4 cups baby spinach
1.5 cups orzo cooked
2 cups beluga lentils cooked
1 avocado diced
200 g cherry tomatoes chopped in half
4 walnuts chopped
salt and pepper to taste

Dressing

½ cup fresh basil
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 garlic cloves
⅛ cup walnuts

Instructions

Add a tsp of oil and the zucchini slices to a pan on medium heat. Grill each side for 2 to 3 minutes for an even cook.
Prepare the Walnut Pesto Dressing: using a small blender, blend together the basil, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic clove, and walnuts.
In a large serving bowl, combine the spinach, orzo, beluga lentils, avocado, tomatoes, grilled zucchini, walnuts. Drizzle the dressing. Adjust salt and pepper to taste and enjoy!

Video

Notes

FAQ

Can I substitute the orzo for another type of pasta? Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta like farfalle or penne. However, the protein content may vary.

Can I use a different type of lentils? Yes, you can use green or brown lentils instead of beluga lentils. Just make sure they are cooked properly.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! This salad can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad? Yes, feel free to add other vegetables of your choice. Just remember to adjust the dressing accordingly.

Can I use store-bought pesto instead of making my own? Yes, you can use store-bought pesto. However, making your own ensures you control the ingredients and their quality.

Nutritional Information - Per Serving