This Colorful Rainbow Orzo Salad is a fresh and fun dish filled with vibrant veggies and tiny pasta. It’s perfect for a picnic or a light lunch, and every bite is bursting with flavor!
I love how the colors make this salad look so cheerful on my plate. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—just cook the orzo, chop some veggies, and mix it all together. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta is key for the texture of the salad. If you can’t find orzo, you can replace it with small pasta like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. If you’d prefer, grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes work well. They just might need a little more chopping!
Cucumber: Diced cucumber provides crunch and freshness. You can use English cucumber if you want fewer seeds, or swap for bell peppers if you’re looking for a sweeter flavor.
Bell Peppers: The colorful bell peppers give the salad its rainbow vibe. Feel free to mix in red or green peppers based on what you have. Each adds a unique taste and texture.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and tang. If you’re dairy-free, try using a vegan feta or omit it altogether for a lighter version.
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo just right is essential for this salad. You want it tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a large pot of salted water—this enhances the flavor of the pasta.
- Follow the package instructions for cooking time, typically around 7-9 minutes, and stir occasionally.
- To check for doneness, taste a piece; it should be al dente, or firm to the bite.
- After draining, run it under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down quickly, which prevents further cooking.
With these simple steps, your orzo will be perfectly cooked, making your salad that much better!
Colorful Rainbow Orzo Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup orange bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup 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 delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. That means you’ll have a colorful and refreshing dish ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente, which typically takes about 7-9 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
2. Rinse and Cool:
Once the orzo is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking and cools the pasta quickly. Make sure to drain it well before transferring it to a large mixing bowl.
3. Mix In the Veggies:
In the bowl with the cooled orzo, add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, orange and yellow bell peppers, and finely chopped red onion. Also, sprinkle in the crumbled feta cheese for that delicious creamy flavor!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This dressing will bring all the flavors together beautifully!
5. Combine It All:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables in the mixing bowl. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Add Fresh Basil:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil, which adds a fragrant and vibrant touch to your salad. Give it a final mix!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad. Add more salt and pepper if needed to suit your taste buds.
8. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Enjoy your salad chilled or at room temperature!
Enjoy this vibrant, fresh, and flavorful rainbow orzo salad as a light lunch or a colorful side dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Colorful Rainbow Orzo Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! You can substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta like quinoa pasta or brown rice pasta. Just ensure that you follow the cooking instructions specific to the gluten-free variety you choose.
What Can I Add for Extra Protein?
If you want to boost the protein in this salad, consider adding cooked chicken, chickpeas, or black beans. These additions make it a heartier meal while maintaining the delightful flavors of the salad!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover orzo salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but you may need to add a splash of olive oil or vinegar to freshen it up when serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for make-ahead meals! You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just remember to add the fresh basil right before serving for maximum flavor!
