This colorful Rainbow Orzo Salad is packed with fresh veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. It’s fun, bright, and super tasty!
Making this salad is a breeze! I love how you can mix and match your favorite veggies. Plus, it’s perfect for a picnic or just a light dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives this salad a fun shape. If you don’t have orzo, any small pasta like ditalini or even quinoa works great as substitutes!
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add bright color. You can use regular tomatoes, though I recommend seeding and dicing them to avoid excess moisture.
Cucumbers: Fresh and crunchy, cucumbers are a must. For a twist, try using diced bell peppers instead or add avocado for creaminess.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow peppers add sweetness and color. Green peppers can be used too, but they have a sharper flavor. Use what you have on hand!
Feta Cheese: This gives a nice tang. If you’re dairy-free, try crumbled tofu with a splash of lemon juice or omit it altogether for a lighter salad.
How Can I Cook Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo might seem easy, but you want it just right! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a pot of well-salted water or broth for flavor.
- Add the orzo and stir immediately to prevent sticking.
- Check the package for the cooking time. A little undercooked (al dente) means it’ll absorb the dressing without becoming mushy.
- Once done, drain the orzo and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down quickly.
This simple method helps make sure your orzo salad is light and perfectly textured!
Easy Rainbow Orzo Salad with Fresh Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 ½ cups water or vegetable broth (for cooking orzo)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take you about 20 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. That means you can whip it up quickly and let the flavors mingle while you relax or prepare other dishes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a pot of salted water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook it according to the package instructions—typically 7 to 9 minutes—until it’s al dente. You want it tender but with a little bite!
2. Cool the Orzo:
Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Let it sit and drain completely.
3. Prepare the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, gather all your colorful veggies: cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red and yellow bell peppers, shredded carrots, red onion, and parsley. This is where the salad gets its beautiful rainbow look!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. This will be the zesty dressing for your salad!
5. Combine Everything:
Add the cooled orzo to your bowl of veggies. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently with a spoon or spatula until well mixed. This ensures every little piece has some tasty dressing!
6. Add Feta (If You Want):
If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the salad now for an extra layer of deliciousness.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give the salad a taste! If you’d like, add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference. It’s all about making it your own!
8. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This helps all those yummy flavors meld together beautifully!
9. Enjoy!
When you’re ready to enjoy, serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s a perfect side dish or light meal that everyone will love!
Now, dig into your fresh, vibrant Rainbow Orzo Salad and savor the delightful crunch and flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo adds extra fiber and nutrients without sacrificing flavor. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly from regular orzo.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to customize with other veggies you love. Peas, zucchini, spinach, or even corn can all be great additions to this salad!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Definitely! Simply omit the feta cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey for a delicious vegan-friendly option. The salad will still be vibrant and flavorful!
