This Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad is a colorful delight! It combines tender orzo pasta with fresh veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty dressing.
It’s perfect for lunch or as a side dish at dinner. I love making a big batch and enjoying it all week—trust me, the colors are so vibrant, they make you feel cheerful just looking at them! 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta is the star of the salad. If you need a gluten-free option, consider substituting with quinoa or rice, which will still keep the dish light and healthy.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add a burst of flavor. If they’re not in season, you can use grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes, but drain them well.
Bell Peppers: I love using both yellow and orange for sweetness. If they’re not available, red or green bell peppers also work great. For a spicy kick, consider jalapeño or poblano instead.
Feta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds a nice tang. If you’re dairy-free, look for plant-based feta or omit it altogether for a lighter version.
Fresh Basil: Adds a lovely aroma! If you don’t have basil, using parsley or mint will give a fresh touch as well.
How to Cook Orzo Perfectly Without It Getting Mushy?
Cooking orzo correctly is essential for a good salad. Here’s how to ensure perfectly cooked orzo:
- Always use a large pot of boiling salted water to keep the pasta from sticking.
- Stir occasionally while cooking to prevent clumping.
- Cook until al dente (firm to the bite), usually between 7–8 minutes as per package instructions.
- After draining, rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it quickly.
- Make sure you transfer it to a bowl once drained to prevent it from stewing in the heat.
These small details can make a big difference in getting that light, fluffy texture for your salad!
Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber (peeled and seeded if desired)
- 1/2 cup diced yellow bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced orange bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This colorful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator for the best flavor. In total, you’ll spend about 45 minutes getting this delicious dish ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture, which is typically around 7 to 8 minutes. After cooking, drain the orzo and then rinse it under cold water. This helps stop the cooking process and cools it down. After draining, transfer the orzo to a large mixing bowl.
2. Prepare the Veggies:
Next, add your colorful ingredients to the bowl! Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, yellow bell pepper, and orange bell pepper. Then, add the finely chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and the freshly chopped basil leaves. It will look beautiful already!
3. Mix the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. This zesty dressing will brighten up your salad!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the orzo and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure all the colorful ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Before putting it in the fridge, taste your salad and feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as needed. It should be bursting with flavor!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This really helps all the flavors come together. When you’re ready to serve, it can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature!
Enjoy this fresh, colorful, and healthy orzo salad as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish! 🌈
FAQ for Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great choice if you want to add more fiber to your meal. Just keep in mind that it may take a slightly longer cooking time, so check the package instructions for the best results.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, for the best flavor and texture, it’s best to enjoy it within the first 2 days!
Can I Add Protein to This Salad?
Definitely! You can easily add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp to make it a more filling meal. Just make sure to adjust the amount of dressing if needed!
What if I Don’t Like Feta Cheese?
No problem! You can either leave the feta out entirely or substitute it with a different cheese, like goat cheese or even a dairy-free option like almond cheese. It will still be delicious!
