This bright and colorful Rainbow Orzo Salad is perfect for a light meal or a side dish! Packed with tasty veggies and tender orzo pasta, it’s both fun and healthy.
Making this salad is a breeze! I love tossing everything together. It’s like eating a bowl of happiness—plus, leftovers make great lunch the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta is the star of the dish! If you’re out of orzo, you can substitute with other small pasta like couscous or ditalini. They will still give a nice texture!
Vegetables: The beauty of this salad is its colors! Feel free to swap out bell peppers for other favorites like asparagus or carrots. You can also add more greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan feta or skip cheese altogether. Crumbled tofu can also work well for a protein boost!
Basil or Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten the dish. If these aren’t available, you could use dried herbs, though you’ll need less since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Orzo?
Cooking orzo correctly is important to avoid mushiness. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use a large pot for plenty of water; this helps the orzo cook evenly.
- Don’t forget to salt the water! It adds flavor right from the start.
- Stir occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking. Check for doneness a minute before the package suggests, and taste to ensure it’s al dente (firm but cooked).
- Rinse under cold water right after draining to halt the cooking process, keeping it perfectly tender!
Easy Rainbow Orzo Salad
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 orange bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lovely Rainbow Orzo Salad can be prepared in about 15 minutes, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a family gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8–10 minutes, until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Rinse and Prepare the Base:
Once the orzo is done, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This stops the cooking process. Transfer the orzo to a large mixing bowl for easy mixing later.
3. Add Fresh Vegetables and Herbs:
To the bowl with orzo, add the halved tomatoes, diced cucumber, yellow and orange bell peppers, chopped red onion, and your choice of fresh herbs like basil or parsley. It’s a rainbow of goodness!
4. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well mixed and smooth.
5. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the orzo and vegetables, tossing everything gently to combine. Make sure all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing.
6. Add Feta and Adjust Flavor:
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad and give it a light toss. Taste your salad and add more salt and pepper if needed for flavor.
7. Chill Before Serving:
Cover your salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors mix together nicely, making each bite more delicious.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once ready to enjoy, serve the salad cold or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light vegetarian meal. Enjoy your colorful and refreshing Rainbow Orzo Salad!
FAQs for Easy Rainbow Orzo Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great substitute if you want more fiber and nutrients. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly from regular orzo.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Orzo Salad?
You can store any leftover Rainbow Orzo Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the veggies may lose some crunch over time, but the flavors will continue to meld!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
This salad is versatile! You can add or substitute with vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or even roasted veggies such as eggplant and bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make the salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan feta option or crumbled tofu. It will still be packed with flavor and nutrients!
