Mung Bean Orzo Olive Salad
This Mung Bean Orzo Olive Salad is delicious, healthy salad that is full of of wholesome ingredients. It combines hearty mung beans, delicious orzo pasta, bright olives and other vegetables. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a weekday lunch, or a potluck, this salad promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Mung Bean Orzo Olive Salad
This dish is a celebration of balance. Earthy mung beans provide a protein-packed foundation, while tender orzo offers a satisfying, pasta-like texture. The briny punch of olives, the crunch of fresh veggies, and the aromatic burst of herbs come together to deliver a medley of Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
The light, zesty dressing elevates every bite, coating each ingredient with a bright citrus tang and a subtle hint of sweetness. It’s simple yet sophisticated—a dressing you’ll want to replicate for other salads.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the best things about this salad is its versatility. Serve it as a light meal on its own or as a side dish to complement grilled tofu, or even a hearty stew. The combination of mung beans and orzo ensures it’s both filling and nutrient-rich, making it an ideal choice for vegetarians or anyone seeking a healthier alternative to heavier dishes.
Planning a meal prep session? This salad stores beautifully in the fridge, its flavors only getting better as they meld together. It’s the kind of dish that feels fresh and vibrant even after a day or two, making it perfect for busy weeks.
Tips for Customization
While the core ingredients shine on their own, this salad welcomes creativity. Add a sprinkle of feta for creaminess, toss in some toasted nuts for crunch, or mix in a handful of leafy greens for extra nutrition. The possibilities are endless, and that’s the beauty of this recipe—it adapts to your preferences and pantry staples.
Why Mung Beans?
Mung beans are a hidden gem in the world of legumes. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, they’re a fantastic way to boost the health factor of any dish. Plus, their slightly nutty flavor pairs beautifully with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, adding depth and balance.
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Mung Bean Orzo Olive Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cup mung beans cooked and drained
- 1 cup orzo pasta ooked according to package instructions
- 1 cup green olives chopped
- ½ cup roasted red bell pepper (jared) chopped
- 1 small red onion finelly chopped
- ½ cup green beans cooked (optional)
- 3-4 spring onion chopped
- 1 bunch fresh dill chopped
Dressing
- 2 tsp dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 ½ tbsp balsamic viengar
- ½ tbsp sumac
- ⅓ tsp salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Start by making the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, sumac and salt. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked mung beans, orzo, olives, roasted red bell pepper, green beans, red onion, dill and spring onion.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Let the salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
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