This colorful Rainbow Orzo Salad is perfect for summer! It’s packed with fresh veggies like bell peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers, making it a tasty and healthy choice.
Your friends will love the bright colors and crunchy textures, and you’ll love how quick and easy it is to make. I often serve it at picnics, and it’s always a hit! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta looks like rice and is perfect for salads! If you’re looking for alternatives, quinoa or couscous work great too, especially for a gluten-free option.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. If they’re out of season, you can use grape tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes instead.
Cucumber: For crunch, any cucumber will do, but English cucumbers are my favorite because they’re seedless and have a thin skin. If they’re unavailable, try zucchini for a similar texture.
Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of colors – it makes the salad pop! If you’re not a fan of bell peppers, diced carrots or radishes could add some crunch and color.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives the salad a tangy punch. For a vegan option, consider using a plant-based feta or leave it out entirely. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Orzo is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking orzo properly is key for a great salad. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to use plenty of salted water to keep the pasta flavorful.
- Check the package for cooking times, as they can vary. Taste it a minute or two before the minimum time; it should be al dente, firm but cooked.
- Once it’s done, quickly drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking.
By keeping these simple steps in mind, you’ll have perfectly cooked orzo every time!
Easy Rainbow Orzo Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup orange bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. It’s the perfect side dish for summer gatherings or a quick and healthy lunch! Overall, you should set aside around 45 minutes to enjoy it at its best.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt to the water. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes, until it’s al dente. After cooking, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Make sure it’s well-drained, then transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the Fresh Veggies:
Into the bowl with the cooled orzo, add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, orange bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and fresh basil. These colorful veggies will make your salad vibrant and tasty!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a dash of salt and pepper. This dressing will bring all the flavors together!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the orzo and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together to make sure the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
5. Add Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad and give it one last gentle toss to incorporate it without breaking up the cheese too much.
6. Taste and Adjust:
This is the fun part! Taste your salad and see if it needs a little more salt or pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow all the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy your bright, healthy dish!
This vibrant Rainbow Orzo Salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for your taste buds! Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch. Enjoy!
FAQ About Easy Rainbow Orzo Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo or Gluten-Free Options?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo will add more fiber and a nutty flavor, while gluten-free orzo made from rice or corn is a great option if you’re avoiding gluten. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time!
How Long Does the Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To refresh it, you might want to add a splash of olive oil or vinegar before serving.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to mix it up! Try adding diced carrots, zucchini, or spinach for extra color and flavor. Just make sure to chop them small enough to blend well with the orzo.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan by omitting the feta cheese or substituting it with a plant-based feta alternative. Additionally, the dressing ingredients are already vegan-friendly!
