Ingredients

• 3/4 cups orzo
• 1 medium apple
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons blanched, sliced almonds

Preparation

1. Cook orzo according to package instructions, omitting salt.
2. Core and dice apple. Chop basil.
3. In a medium bowl, add all the ingredients except the almonds. Combine until well incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Sprinkle with the almonds before serving. 

Helpful hints

• Three-fourths cup orzo makes 2 cups when cooked.
• Fuji, gala and red delicious apples taste great in this salad.