Description
Street Corn Orzo Salad is a fresh, colorful, and protein-packed dish featuring tender orzo, sautéed sweet corn, cannellini beans, zesty lime dressing, and optional vegan feta. This versatile salad is perfect for lunch, picnics, or as a refreshing side.
Ingredients
¼ cup dry orzo
2 teaspoons olive oil
3 cups sweet corn kernels frozen
15 ounces cannellini beans canned, drained and rinsed
1 small red bell pepper diced
1 small red onion diced
1 small jalapeño seeded, minced
⅓ cup chopped fresh cilantro
⅓ cup vegan mayonnaise (Chosen Foods or similar)
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
¼ teaspoon chipotle powder
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon Tajin seasoning optional
Vegan feta (Violife vegan feta or similar) optional
2 cups finely chopped kale optional
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook orzo according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté corn for approximately 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, sautéed corn, cannellini beans, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, and chopped cilantro.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together vegan mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, and distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
5. Add the dressing to the orzo mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
6. Sprinkle in chipotle powder, chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, and Tajin seasoning if using. Mix well.
7. Add finely chopped kale if desired and massage it into the salad for a tender texture.
8. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
9. Top with crumbled vegan feta if desired before serving.
Notes
Use frozen, fresh, or canned drained corn kernels depending on availability.
Vegan mayonnaise and vegan feta alternatives such as Chosen Foods or Violife can be used.
Adjust spice levels with jalapeño, chipotle, or chili powder to suit personal taste.
The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Add fresh herbs or vegan feta just before serving for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Mixing, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Vegan