Spring Orzo Salad

Now I think that this salad would be a good compliment to the Easy Cheesy Breadsticks.

What you will need:

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1/2 cup each lemon juice and water

1/4 cup olive oil

2 teaspoons sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion

1 pound orzo pasta

8 oz asparagus, ends trimmed , cut into 1 inch pieces.

2 cups bagged shredded carrots

1/2 cup chopped fresh mint,dill or parsley.

1. Whisk lemon zest, juice, water,oil,sugar,salt and pepper in a large bowl until blended. Add onions and let stand while pasta cooks.

2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta, return to a boil and cook as package directs:stir in asparagus and carrots 3 minutes before pasta will be done.

3. Cook until pasta and vegetables are just firm-tender. Drain and rinse under cold running water:drain again.

4. Put in bowl with dressing. Add mint and toss to mix and coat.

Serves 8 people