Insalata Florentine

I haven't been to Macaroni Grill for awhile. I think the last time was when I was pregnant with my son. He is 5 1/2. But I love this salad. I have fun finding a dish I love at a restaurant and then try to break it down and recreate it. 

After I recreated it and made my version several times, I found the original recipe here.

I like my version, but I think next time I make it, I'll try the original recipe.

And sorry, we ate this to fast to take any photos. :) But it looks a lot like this only with more spinach when it's finished.

Insalata Florentine

(Spinach, Orzo and Chicken Salad)

Adapted from MACARONI GRILL

5 cups julienne-shredded fresh spinach


2 chicken breasts grilled chicken, seasoned, sliced and chilled


2 ripe Roma tomatoes, diced


¼ cup pine nuts, lightly toasted


¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienne cut


¼  cup capers


½ cup sliced black or kalamata olives


5 ounces orzo pasta, cooked and chilled

½ cup balsamic vinegrette

1/4 ounce shaved Parmesan
 cheese

Fresh cracked pepper, for garnish

In the order listed, place all ingredients, except Parmesan cheese, in a chilled mixing bowl. Toss and serve on a decorative wide bowl. Garnish with shaved Parmesan cheese and fresh cracked pepper

Balsamic Vinaigrette

¼ cup Balsamic vinegar
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
juice of one lemon
pinch oregano
¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
pinch of salt

Some more yummy recipes to come....

Great Harvest Chocolate Chip Cookies

Slow-Cooker Pork with Noodles