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+ servings
Rainbow Orzo Salad

Bright and Crunchy Rainbow Orzo Salad for Summer Joy

Discover the vibrant Rainbow Orzo Salad, a refreshing vegetarian dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo Substitute with gluten-free pasta or quinoa for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Can swap for grape or diced Roma tomatoes.
  • 1 cup Cucumber Consider using another crunchy vegetable like bell peppers for variation.
  • 1 small Red Onion Can substitute with green onions or omit for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Bell Pepper Use any color; yellow and orange provide a sweeter profile.
  • 1/2 cup Feta Cheese Can be skipped for a vegan option or substituted with goat cheese or mozzarella.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Use extra virgin for better flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Can replace with balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a different acidity.
  • 1 clove Garlic Use fresh minced garlic or garlic powder as an alternative.
  • to taste Salt & Pepper A pinch of salt can elevate the taste of your Rainbow Orzo Salad.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Strainer
  • large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add orzo pasta and cook for about 7-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water.
  2. While the orzo is cooking, wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Place all veggies in a large mixing bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  4. Once the orzo has cooled, add it to the bowl with the chopped vegetables. Crumble feta cheese on top and fold the ingredients together.
  5. Pour the vinaigrette over the tossed orzo and vegetables. Toss again to coat everything evenly with the dressing.
  6. Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. Add leftover vinaigrette before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Fresh, high-quality ingredients enhance flavor. Allow salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Customize veggies as desired.

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