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Rainbow Orzo Salad

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  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Description

Rainbow Orzo Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that combines tender orzo pasta with colorful vegetables, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. This dish is perfect as a side, a light main course, or for meal prepping, offering a nutritious and customizable option for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to the package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
  2. While the orzo is cooling, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and chop the parsley and basil (if using).
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and herbs. If you’re using feta cheese and olives, add them in at this stage.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
  6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will develop more as it sits, making it great for meal prep.

Notes

For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or quinoa.To make it vegan, omit the feta cheese and olives, or swap them for vegan feta.Roasted vegetables like zucchini or sweet potatoes can be added for a hearty variation.Use different herbs such as mint, cilantro, or dill to customize the flavor.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Find it online: https://lisarecipe.com/rainbow-orzo-salad/