This Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad is a colorful mix of veggies, orzo pasta, and a light dressing. It’s not just pretty, but also packed with nutrients!
You can toss in any veggies you like—carrots, bell peppers, or cucumbers, yum! It’s a great way to use up what’s in your fridge while making a tasty meal.
I’m a big fan of enjoying this salad cold, making it perfect for lunch or a side dish. Plus, it’s quick to make, so I can whip it up in no time for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta cooks quickly and absorbs the dressing well. If you’re gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free orzo or even quinoa for a nutritious twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness is perfect for this salad. You can swap them for diced regular tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a different flavor.
Cucumber: A refreshing addition! If you want more crunch, consider using snap peas or celery instead.
Bell Peppers: Yellow and orange add color and sweetness. Feel free to mix in green or red bell peppers, or even use diced zucchini.
Feta Cheese: It lends a creamy texture and tangy taste. For a vegan option, try using crumbled tofu or a vegan feta cheese made from nuts.
Fresh Basil: Adds a fragrant touch. If basil isn’t available, parsley or mint can also work well.
How Do I Properly Cook the Orzo?
Cooking orzo seems simple, but here’s how to get it just right:
1. Always use a pot of well-salted water—think like pasta! It helps season the orzo.
2. Boil water first, then add the orzo to avoid clumping.
3. Stir occasionally as it cooks to prevent sticking.
4. Check for doneness at around 8 minutes; you want it al dente—firm but tender.
5. Once done, don’t forget to rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking and cools it for your salad.
Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 orange bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes before it’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
Once the orzo is cool, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, yellow and orange bell peppers, finely chopped red onion, and fresh basil. These colorful veggies will make your salad pop!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing will add wonderful flavor to your salad.
4. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the orzo and vegetables in the bowl. Toss everything gently to combine well. Make sure all the ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
5. Add Feta and Chill:
Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese, which adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or vinegar if you like. Then, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge. Serve it cold as a refreshing side dish or a light main dish. Enjoy your colorful and nutritious Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad!
FAQ About Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad
Can I Use Different Veggies in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Good alternatives include zucchini, diced carrots, or even blanched asparagus. The more colorful, the better!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free feta alternative. You can also add a scoop of avocado for creaminess!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but for the best texture, consider adding fresh basil and feta just before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it up to a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the fridge and give it a good toss before serving to refresh the flavors.
