Recipes: Orzo and zucchini salad

ORZO AND ZUCCHINI SALAD

Serves 4.

For an even more colorful presentation, choose one zucchini and one golden yellow squash. If you like, toss in a handful of toasted pine nuts.

• Coarse salt and ground pepper

• 1 c. orzo

• 1 tbsp. plus 1 tsp. olive oil, divided

• 2 medium zucchini, quartered lengthwise and thinly sliced

• 1/2 c. fresh basil leaves, torn

• 1 to 2 tbsp. white-wine vinegar

Directions

In a medium pot of boiling salted water, cook orzo until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain well. Spread on a rimmed baking sheet to cool completely.

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium. Add zucchini and garlic; season with salt and pepper. Cook, tossing occasionally, until crisp-tender, 4 to 6 minutes.

Nutrition information per serving:

Calories199Fat6 gSodium137 mgCarbohydrates31 gSaturated fat1 gCalcium31 mg

Protein7 gCholesterol0 mgDietary fiber3 g

Diabetic exchanges per serving: 2 bread/starch, 1 fat.

NEW POTATO SALAD

This French-style potato salad is traditionally made with white wine; we've used lemon juice and zest instead, lending the results a tangy freshness.

• 11/2 lb. red new potatoes, sliced 1/4 in. thick

• 1 tsp. lemon zest plus 1/4 c. fresh lemon juice (from 2 lemons)

• Coarse salt and ground pepper

• 1/2 c. coarsely chopped fresh herbs, such as a combination of chives, parsley and tarragon

Directions

Set a steamer basket in a large pot with a lid. Fill with enough water to come just below basket; bring to a boil. Place potatoes in basket; reduce heat to a simmer. Cover pot; steam, tossing potatoes occasionally, until tender, 10 to 12 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, place lemon zest and juice; season with salt and pepper. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer potatoes to bowl. With a rubber spatula, gently toss potatoes with lemon juice. Refrigerate until cool, at least 1 hour.

Toss herbs and oil with cooled potato mixture; season with salt and pepper. If storing, cover and refrigerate up to 1 day; bring to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition information per serving:

Protein3 gCholesterol0 mgDietary fiber4 g