Ingredients

Salad :
2 cups orzo pasta
2 packages baby spinach
3 cups chopped grilled chicken
2 roma tomatoes , diced
1/2 cup pine nuts
1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
2 tablespoons capers , or to taste ( optional )
Dressing :
1 cup balsamic vinegar
1/3 cup olive oil
1/4 cup white sugar
2 tablespoons dried parsley
2 teaspoons dried basil
2 cloves garlic , pressed
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese , or to taste
Chicken Florentine Salad with Orzo Pasta is a fresh and colorful dish that combines the flavors of tender grilled chicken, robust sun-dried tomatoes, and earthy pine nuts, all brought together with a tangy balsamic dressing. Orzo pasta adds a chewy texture to the salad while baby spinach provides a hearty portion of greens. This salad is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner, or as a side dish to complement a family meal.

Instructions

1.Cook orzo pasta in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2.In a large bowl, combine baby spinach, chopped grilled chicken, diced roma tomatoes, pine nuts, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and capers (if desired).
3.In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, white sugar, dried parsley, dried basil, pressed garlic, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
4.Add cooked orzo pasta to the salad bowl and mix well with the dressing.
5.Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

PROS

This Chicken Florentine Salad with Orzo Pasta is high in protein and fiber.

It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying lunch or dinner.

CONS

The dressing is high in sugar and calories, so use it sparingly.

This salad can also be high in sodium if capers and Parmesan cheese are added.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This salad is a great source of protein, fiber, and several essential vitamins and minerals.
The baby spinach and sun-dried tomatoes contain antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Orzo pasta is a low-fat source of complex carbohydrates that provides sustained energy.

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