This colorful Rainbow Orzo Salad is as fun to make as it is to eat! With vibrant veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and spinach, it’s a feast for the eyes and taste buds.
It’s perfect for picnics or quick lunches. I love how simple it is to whip up—just cook the orzo, toss in the veggies, and drizzle some dressing. Easy peasy, right? 🍅🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta is the star of the salad! If you can’t find orzo, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or tiny shells. Each will give you a delightful bite!
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they’re perfect here. If you prefer a different kind, regular tomatoes diced small will work. You could also try using grape tomatoes for a similar sweetness.
Cucumber: I like using English cucumbers for their crispness and fewer seeds. Regular cucumbers work too. If you’re looking for a crunch, try adding some chopped bell peppers instead.
Bell Peppers: For a vibrant salad, I suggest using a mix of colors. Red, yellow, and orange provide sweetness, but green peppers can also be used for a more bitter contrast if that’s what you prefer.
Feta Cheese: This cheese adds a tangy flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a plant-based feta or omit it altogether for a fresh taste!
How Can I Make Sure the Orzo Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking orzo correctly is key. Here’s how to nail it:
- Boil salted water before adding the orzo to enhance flavor.
- Cook according to the package instructions, usually 7-9 minutes for al dente.
- Taste the orzo a minute before it’s done to make sure it’s firm to the bite.
- Once cooked, drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool down the pasta quickly.
Perfectly cooked orzo will ensure your salad has a lovely texture, so don’t rush this step!
Easy Rainbow Orzo Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- ½ cup diced yellow bell pepper
- ½ cup diced orange bell pepper
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Rainbow Orzo Salad can be made in about 15 minutes of prep time. Allow at least 30 minutes for chilling in the fridge before serving, so the flavors can meld beautifully. In total, you’ll need around 45 minutes to enjoy this vibrant dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling away, add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes, until it’s al dente (meaning it’s cooked but still has a slight bite). Once done, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down. Set it aside for later.
2. Mix the Veggies:
In a big mixing bowl, toss together the cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, yellow and orange bell peppers, red onion, and the fresh, chopped basil. The colors will make it look so inviting!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This is where the flavor magic happens!
4. Combine It All:
Pour the dressing over the orzo and vegetables. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are nicely coated in that yummy dressing.
5. Add the Feta:
Carefully fold in the crumbled feta cheese, adding an extra layer of flavor. Be gentle so you don’t break up the feta too much!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad and adjust the seasoning. If you think it needs a pinch more salt, some extra lemon juice, or a dash of pepper, go for it!
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let those delightful flavors merge together. When you’re ready to eat, serve it cold or at room temperature and enjoy your colorful, refreshing Rainbow Orzo Salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo will add a nuttier flavor and a bit more fiber to your salad. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may slightly differ from regular orzo.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Rainbow Orzo Salad?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but be mindful that some of the salad’s texture might change over time.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding veggies like shredded carrots, diced zucchini, or even steamed broccoli. Just cut them into small pieces for even mixing!
What If I Don’t Like Feta Cheese?
If feta isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with goat cheese, mozzarella balls, or leave it out entirely for a dairy-free version. The salad will still be delicious!
