This colorful Rainbow Orzo Salad is fresh and fun! With pasta, bright veggies like bell peppers and cherry tomatoes, and a light dressing, it’s perfect for a sunny day.
I love how this salad looks like a party on a plate! It’s also super easy to make, so I whip it up often for picnics or potlucks. Who doesn’t love a bowl of happiness?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small rice-shaped pasta is the star of the dish. If you can’t find orzo, you can swap it with any small pasta like ditalini, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and color! If you’re out of cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes can work well. For a more intense flavor, consider sundried tomatoes instead.
Bell Peppers: The variety of colors makes this salad pop! You can mix and match with green bell peppers or even use other veggies like shredded carrots or corn for sweetness.
Feta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds a salty kick. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice or use a plant-based feta.
Red Wine Vinegar: It gives the dressing a nice tang. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Orzo Pasta?
Cooking orzo might seem straightforward, but a few simple steps can enhance your results. Here’s how to ensure it’s perfectly cooked:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. The salt helps flavor the pasta.
- Add the orzo and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for 7-9 minutes until it’s al dente—cooked but still firm to the bite.
- Once cooked, drain carefully, and rinse under cold water. This step stops the cooking and cools the pasta for the salad.
- Let it drain well before adding it to your other ingredients to avoid excess water making the salad soggy.
By following these tips, you’ll have fluffy, perfectly cooked orzo for your salad! Enjoy making this colorful dish.
Easy Rainbow Orzo Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup orange bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Rainbow Orzo Salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just under an hour, you’ll have a fresh and colorful dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 7-9 minutes, until it’s al dente. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking! Once ready, drain the orzo and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Set it aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the Veggies:
Now, it’s time to add some color! Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, yellow and orange bell peppers, chopped red onion, and fresh basil into the bowl with the orzo. All these bright veggies will make your salad look fantastic!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This dressing will bring all the flavors together!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour that delicious dressing over the orzo and veggies in the bowl. Toss gently to combine everything evenly so that the pasta and veggies are nicely coated with the dressing.
5. Finish with Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad and toss lightly again. This adds a lovely creamy texture and tangy flavor!
6. Chill and Serve:
For the best taste, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy it cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect as a fresh side dish or light main course!
This vibrant Rainbow Orzo Salad is a treat for the eyes and the palate—enjoy making and sharing this easy and delightful dish!
FAQ for Easy Rainbow Orzo Salad
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with your favorite veggies. Try adding ingredients like shredded carrots, peas, or corn for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure they’re chopped small enough to blend well.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but keep in mind that the veggies may lose some crunch over time.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad actually tastes even better when made ahead. Prepare it a day in advance, and refrigerate. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing!
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta or need a dairy-free option, you can use crumbled tofu seasoned with a little lemon juice or even a vegan feta product. It will still add a nice texture and flavor to the salad!