Asparagus Orzo Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 box orzo 
• 1/4 cup red onion (diced)
• 1 pound North Bay asparagus (cleaned, trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces. Blanched-optional)
• 1/2 cup red or orange pepper (sliced)
• 1 cup grape tomatoes (sliced in half) 
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (sliced)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil (sliced)
• 1 small bottle of creamy Italian dressing 

Directions

Step 1. 

Prepare orzo per package directions. Run cold water over cooked orzo in a strainer to cool and set aside. 

Step 2. 

In a large bowl, add red onion, asparagus, peppers, tomatoes and olives. Mix well. 

Step 3. 

Add vegetables into orzo, combine evenly. Pour dressing over salad ingredients, tossing to coat. Fold in basil right before serving.