Article

RECIPE: Broccoli Strawberry Orzo Salad with Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing

  |  by 

Fresh broccoli and strawberries are colorful additions to this refreshing summer delight. Lemon dressing brings a bright flavor to this pasta dish.

Welcome in the first rays of summer sun and take advantage of an abundance of fresh fruits and veggies. Fresh broccoli and strawberries are colorful additions to this refreshing summer delight. Lemon dressing brings a bright flavor to this pasta dish.

INGREDIENTS FOR THE SALAD

  • 3/4 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli (chopped)
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries (diced)
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds

INGREDIENTS FOR THE DRESSING

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (or honey)
  • Poppy seeds (1 teaspoon, optional)

DIRECTIONS

  1. Cook orzo pasta according to directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine orzo pasta, broccoli, strawberries, and sunflower seeds.
  3. Drizzle with lemon poppy seed vinaigrette and toss to combine.
  4. Season with salt and pepper. Chill in refrigerator until ready to serve.

Source: USDA Mixing Bowl

NUTRITION INFORMATION

Servings: 6
Calories: 153
Fat: 1 g
Protein: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Dietary Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: 31 mg

For over 100 years, USDA has provided nutrition advice through food guides designed to help Americans make healthy food choices. The MyPlate icon is the latest food guide, based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. It serves as a reminder to find your healthy eating style and build it throughout your lifetime.

Read more about 

Read more essential benefits information and current health & wellness matters:
PTO & wellness/EAPs programs play a key role in preventing office fatigue. Read more about how employers can help prevent workplace burnout.
Preventive care screenings in 2026 are essential for lifelong health. Discover how agespecific exams reduce health risks.
Advancing preventive health and wellness strengthens long-term health by reducing disease risk, catching issues early and supporting better overall health. Do you know the proactive steps?
Leafy green superfoods have powerful health benefits. Learn how they support energy, immunity and overall wellness.
Insurance-covered preventive services help support long-term health through early detection. Learn more about free annual exams.
High-stress jobs can drain energy and focus. Learn practical ways to build mental resilience at work.
A superfood, blueberries benefit brain health & cognitive support. Learn how they support memory and focus.
Small, consistent habits can improve focus, memory, and handling stress at work. Test your knowledge about mental resilience, cognitive support and everyday brain health.
Burnout, anxiety & depression can take a toll on employees’ well-being and job satisfaction. Get help with Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to support mental health.