Fregola is a toasted semolina pasta that is very popular in Sardinia. You can substitute any small shape pasta, such as orzo, which it resembles, but do make the effort to seek it out at a specialty food shop; its nutty flavor makes this pasta salad really unusual and delicious.
Recipe information
Yield
4 to 6 servings
Ingredients
Orange Oil
Salad
Preparation
To Make the Orange Oil
Step 1
Combine the olive oil and the orange zest in a small bowl and set aside.
To Make the Salad
Step 2
In a large saucepan bring the chicken broth to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, 10 to 12 minutes. Drain the pasta and dump it onto a large baking sheet. Spread it out into a single layer and let cool for 10 minutes.
Step 3
Meanwhile, using a small knife, cut all the peel and pith off the orange and grapefruit. Holding the fruit over a large bowl, cut between the membranes to release the segments into the bowl and catch the juices. Add the onion, mint, basil, fennel seeds, salt, pepper, and cooled fregola pasta.
Step 4
Add the reserved orange oil to the pasta. Toss all the ingredients together and serve.
