Go Back
Grilled Corn Orzo Salad with Scallion Dill Dressing

Grilled Corn Orzo Salad with Scallion Dill Dressing

Evelyn
This Grilled Corn Orzo Salad with Scallion Dill Dressing is a fresh, flavor-packed pasta salad perfect for summer. With charred corn, creamy herb dressing, and plenty of vegetables, it works as a side dish or light main course.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Lunch
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 342 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Grill pan or griddle
  • Blender
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Tongs
  • Sharp knife

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup orzo pasta regular or gluten-free
  • 3 ears fresh sweet corn husks removed
  • 1 bunch green scallions about 8 scallions, white and green parts separated
  • 2 teaspoons avocado oil for searing
  • 5 cloves garlic peeled
  • Zest and juice of 1 medium lemon
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon yellow or white miso paste
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill thick stems removed
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves
  • 12 oz frozen edamame thawed
  • 1/3 cup marinated jarred artichoke hearts roughly chopped
  • 3 cups baby arugula
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Shaved vegan parmesan optional, for serving
  • to taste Kosher salt

Instructions
 

  • Cook the orzo: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package directions until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl to cool slightly.
  • Grill the corn: Heat a grill pan or griddle over medium heat. Add corn directly to the surface and grill 10-12 minutes, turning with tongs until lightly charred on all sides. Set aside to cool.
  • Sear scallions and garlic: Trim roots from scallions and separate white from green parts. Set greens aside. Add white parts to the hot pan and sear 1-2 minutes per side, pressing down gently. Add garlic cloves and avocado oil to one side of the pan, sautéing 2-3 minutes until fragrant and golden. Set both aside to cool.
  • Make the dressing: To a blender, add sautéed garlic, 4 seared scallion whites, lemon zest and juice, vinegar, olive oil, miso paste, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add fresh dill and blend again until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Assemble the salad: Once corn is cool enough to handle, cut kernels off the cob. Thinly slice remaining cooked scallions and raw scallion greens. Add corn, scallions, artichoke hearts, edamame, oregano, arugula, and red pepper flakes to the bowl with orzo. Pour dressing overtop and toss well to coat.
  • Serve: Taste and adjust with more salt or lemon juice if needed. Serve immediately or chill for later. Top with shaved vegan parmesan just before serving if desired.

Notes

  • Make-ahead tip: This salad tastes even better after a day in the fridge as flavors meld. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with quinoa for a gluten-free version.
  • Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, crispy tofu, or a poached egg to make this a complete meal.
  • Herb swaps: Fresh basil or cilantro work well in place of dill for different flavor profiles.
Keyword Grilled Corn Orzo Salad with Scallion Dill Dressing