This Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad is a colorful mix of veggies, tasty orzo pasta, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a side dish for dinner!
The best part? You can toss in whatever colorful veggies you have on hand. I love adding extra cherry tomatoes—yum! Plus, it’s super easy to make ahead for busy days.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small rice-shaped pasta is key for this salad’s texture. If you want a gluten-free option, try quinoa or brown rice instead. Both have a nice chew!
Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet tomatoes add flavor and color. If they’re out of season, you could use diced regular tomatoes. Sun-dried tomatoes can also bring a unique twist!
Cucumbers: Crunchy cucumbers keep the salad fresh. For a change, try diced zucchini or even avocado for creaminess!
Bell Peppers: Orange and yellow bell peppers add sweetness and color. Feel free to swap with red or even green peppers, or use roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor.
Feta Cheese: Feta is salty and tangy, perfect for this dish! If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based feta or simply omit it!
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo seems simple, but can be tricky. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with plenty of salted water in a large pot to keep the pasta from sticking.
- Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add orzo and stir to prevent clumping.
- Cook for about 7-8 minutes, tasting for that perfect al dente bite.
- Drain and rinse the orzo under cold water immediately to stop cooking. This keeps it firm and avoids mushiness.
Trust me, taking these steps makes a big difference in texture!
Healthy 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
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, you can whip it up pretty quickly, and then let the flavors develop while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add in the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 7 to 8 minutes, until it’s al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly and stop further cooking. Set it aside while you prep the veggies.
2. Chop Fresh Veggies:
While your orzo is cooking, wash and chop your vegetables. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, and chop the bell peppers and red onion. Gather all your chopped veggies in a large mixing bowl and add the freshly chopped basil leaves to brighten things up!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This flavorful dressing will bring all the ingredients together!
4. Combine Everything:
Now, add the cooled orzo to the bowl with the veggies. Drizzle your freshly made dressing over the top and toss everything gently to combine. You want to make sure that every bite has a taste of that delicious dressing!
5. Add Feta & Season:
Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese—feel free to save a bit for garnishing later! Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. If you want to get creative, you can also sprinkle in more herbs or spices you enjoy.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, dish it out cold or at room temperature, and sprinkle on any reserved feta and fresh basil for that pop of color!
This vibrant, fresh salad combines tender orzo with a rainbow of vegetables and a bright lemon dressing to create a healthy, delicious dish perfect for any occasion! Enjoy your colorful creation!
FAQ for Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta, quinoa, or brown rice. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions for the alternative you choose!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Other great additions include grated carrots, steamed asparagus, or even roasted vegetables like zucchini and eggplant. Just remember to keep the colors vibrant for that “rainbow” effect!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may get a little dry after sitting, so you can add a splash of olive oil or fresh lemon juice when ready to serve to freshen it up!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day in advance and allow the flavors to meld in the fridge. Just hold off on adding the feta until right before serving to keep it fresh and creamy!
