Does J. Alexander's orzo salad have wheat berries in it?

From the crunch of the peppers and almonds, the wholesome flavor of the rice and wheat berries … and that dressing!

What is the difference between orzo rice and orzo pasta?

Though orzo is shaped like rice, it is actually a pasta . Further confusing the two, sometimes orzo makes its way into rice-centric dishes such as rice pilaf and casseroles. But, even when it is gluten-free, orzo remains part of the pasta family.

Are wheat berries healthier than rice?

Unlike white rice, wheat berries have a low glycemic index which does not allow blood sugar levels to increase that much . Wheat berries also possess complex carbohydrates that keep an individual satiated and prevents overeating. The protein content in wheat berries is way more than rice as well.

Which is healthier wheat berries or farro?

Wheat berries are one of the best options when it comes to adding fibre to the diet . In terms of fibre and protein, they tend to offer a tiny bit more than farro, but both of their respective vitamins and minerals make them both great options to put on rotation depending on what your body requires.

Which is healthier rice or orzo?

Orzo also has a higher fiber content than rice as well. Orzo does, however, have a higher carbohydrate content per serving, but not by much. Due to the higher protein and fiber content, orzo will leave you feeling fuller for longer which is helpful for those trying to lose weight.

Does orzo raise blood sugar?

Orzo and asparagus are low-glycemic foods, making this recipe great for those who need to control their blood sugar.

Is orzo good or bad for you?

Orzo can fit beautifully into your meals, potentially offering valuable nutrients . It comes packed with carbs, making it an energy source for your daily needs. Its whole-grain variants offer added fiber and nutrients.

Does orzo have wheat?

Orzo is made from wheat semolina flour, which contains gluten . Because orzo is made intentionally to resemble rice (which is gluten-free), people will sometimes mistake it for Italian arborio rice, particularly if it's been cooked al dente (firm to the bite).

Is orzo made from whole wheat?

Whole-wheat orzo pasta is typically made with stone-ground durum wheat , meaning the bran, germ and endosperm are all intact. Finer, more processed white durum white, removes the nutritive bran and germ.

Is orzo a wheat pasta?

Orzo is an Italian type of pasta. It's often made from semolina flour, a type of flour that comes from durum wheat . It can also be made from all-purpose or whole wheat flour. None of these are gluten-free, so neither is orzo ( 1 ).

What is a substitute for wheat berries in salad?

Wheat Berry Salad Recipe Ingredients Their sweet, nutty flavor and chewy texture is fantastic here, but if you can't find them, don't worry. Farro is an excellent substitute, and wild rice will also work if you're gluten-free .

Copycat J. Alexander's Orzo and Wild Rice Salad Recipe

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#65327

This copycat version of the salad served at J. Alexander's restaurant is made with wild rice, orzo pasta, onions, corn, currants, bell pepper, and basil tossed with a balsamic and honey dressing.

serves/makes:

ready in:

2-5 hrs

13 reviews
1 comment

ingredients

1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
1/3 cup raw wild rice
3 tablespoons diced red onions
3 tablespoons currants
2 tablespoons canned or frozen corn
3 tablespoons diced yellow bell pepper
3 tablespoons diced red bell pepper
3 tablespoons diced green bell pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Orzo Dressing
1/8 cup white balsamic vinegar
1 1/2 tablespoon honey
1/4 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon minced garlic
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup canola oil
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

directions

Cook both the orzo and wild rice as directed on their respective packages. Rinse both in cold water, drain well and place in a large bowl.

Add the onions, currants, corn, bell peppers, basil, salt, pepper, and parsley to the orzo and wild rice. Mix well. Place in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours or until chilled.

Combine all the dressing ingredients except the canola and olive oil. Mix well. While stirring, slowly add both the oils. Mix until well blended.

Toss the chilled salad mixture with the dressing and serve immediately.

recipe tips

Lightly toast the wild rice in a hot skillet before cooking to boost its nutty flavor.

If using frozen corn, thaw it before adding to the salad. For canned corn, make sure it's drained well.

Try adding other ingredients like toasted nuts, feta cheese, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.

Only cook the orzo to al dente otherwise it may become mushy while chilling.

For a healthier version, you can reduce the amount of oil in the dressing or use a lighter oil alternative.

The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. It's great as a make-ahead dish for gatherings.

common recipe questions

Can I substitute another type of rice for wild rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice or a rice blend if wild rice is not available. The texture and flavor will differ slightly but will still complement the salad.

Is it possible to use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is preferred for its vibrant flavor, but in a pinch, you can use dried basil. Use one-third of the amount specified for fresh basil. You might want to let the dressing sit for a bit so the dried basil can release its flavor.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad in advance. It's recommended to add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh.

What alternatives can I use if I don't have white balsamic vinegar?

You can use regular balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or white wine vinegar. Each will add a slightly different flavor.

Is it necessary to chill the salad before serving?

Chilling allows the flavors to blend together, but if you're short on time, you can serve it immediately after tossing with the dressing.

nutrition data

449 calories, 28 grams fat, 46 grams carbohydrates, 6 grams protein per serving.

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LOW FAT SOUTHWESTERN RICE AND BEAN SALAD

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reviews & comments

GerryHD REVIEW:
December 13, 2016

This is a wonderful salad. I don't think the photo above does it justice - looks like there is a lot of white rice in it and no wild rice (hence the 4 star rating). The original recipe calls for wild rice and orzo - definitely 5 star!I am going to make it again for a Christmas pot-luck lunch tomorrow.
- CDKitchen Staff Reply:
  
  The photo was submitted by a user of the website, not CDKitchen staff. They must have made substitutions to the recipe based on preferences or what they had available to them.
Mom B October 19, 2014

I just ate this for the first time at J Alexanders last night. I agree with the earlier post - there were slivered almonds. I also remember dried cranberries and currants.
Anonymous REVIEW:
July 29, 2014

love love love this salad!! I skip the currants though.
workedthere REVIEW:
May 28, 2014

Close, but I worked there... the vinagerette is a cliantro vin.. and there is no green peppers. there is also red winter wheat, and slivers of almonds
Grandmadd REVIEW:
March 23, 2014

This is my favorite side dish ever . It is beautiful and extremely delicious !
kitchensarah REVIEW:
October 28, 2013

Super impressive salad! I was glad I chose it for the luncheon menu. Everyone really loved it.
urhighness75 REVIEW:
August 9, 2013

Awesome!
So Very Carrie REVIEW:
July 16, 2013

Amazing salad recipe. Very gourmet, good flavors, pretty, you just can't ask for more than that!
Guest Foodie REVIEW:
July 7, 2013

My neighbor made this yesterday and I told her I loved it so much that I was going to write a review for it! It is incredible! I think she must have doubled the recipe so it works well if you do that. It's a really pretty salad too with all the different colors and the combination of orzo and wild rice.
Jen REVIEW:
March 30, 2013

Big hit at family gathering. I tripled everything except the dressing, which I doubled. I also added crushed toasted pecans. Turned out great!
Guest Foodie REVIEW:
April 15, 2012

Definitely a five! I serve this a lot. It is also a great dish to take to a luncheon or cookout!Heavenly, Diabeticsââ¬¦.watch the carbs as it is loaded.C. D.Franklin, Tn4=15=12
W & L REVIEW:
September 24, 2011

My neice made this for a dinner and we love it. My husband doesn''t usually like this kind of food but he can't get enough of it. This is a keeper!!
Guest Foodie REVIEW:
August 1, 2011

Made this for a party, It was wonderful, I changed out the Currants for Dried cranberry's, I will be making this again.
raymond REVIEW:
May 11, 2011

MY DAUGHTER AND I HAD THIS MOTHER'S DAY - THIS IS THE MOST DELICIOUSSALAD I HAVE EVER EATEN.WE WILL BE BACK SOON

Please note:
This is a copy cat recipe submitted to CDKitchen by a third-party. This recipe is not an original recipe unless specifically stated and is considered only to be an acceptable "clone" to the original for the home cook to attempt to duplicate. Please also note that many nationwide restaurant chains vary their menus and ingredients by region so the version provided may not be similar to what you may have tried before. All trademarks referenced are property of their respective owners.

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Copycat J. Alexander's Orzo and Wild Rice Salad Recipe | CDKitchen.com (2024)