This Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad is a colorful treat packed with fresh veggies like bell peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers. It’s not just pretty; it’s super tasty and good for you!
The best part? You can whip this up in no time! I love making it for lunch or as a side dish. Plus, the leftovers are perfect for quick snacks. Who doesn’t love a rainbow on their plate? 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta is a great base for this salad. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with quinoa or rice pasta. Both maintain that lovely bite while adding a different texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes bring sweetness and color. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes work as a substitute, but drain them well to prevent the salad from getting soggy.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds a lovely fragrance and flavor. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use fresh parsley or dried basil as an alternative. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use less!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a salty creaminess. If you’re dairy-free or vegan, try using crumbled tofu or a store-bought dairy-free feta for a similar taste.
How Can I Ensure My Orzo is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking orzo might seem simple, but there is a trick to getting it just right! Here are some tips:
- Use a large pot of salted boiling water to allow the orzo to move freely and cook evenly.
- Follow the package instructions, but start checking a minute or two before the suggested time to avoid overcooking.
- Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent clumping.
Getting your pasta just right will ensure the best texture for your salad!
Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ cups dry orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumber (seeded if preferred)
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, and orange for color variety)
- ½ cup diced red onion
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and will benefit from at least 30 minutes of chilling time in the fridge to blend those wonderful flavors together. Overall, you’ll spend about 45 minutes from start to finish, including prep and chill time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the dry orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop it from cooking further. Set it aside to cool and drain well.
2. Mix the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, colorful bell peppers, diced red onion, and chopped basil. This is where the salad starts looking like a rainbow!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until everything is well blended. This will give your salad a zesty kick!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the orzo and vegetable mix. Gently toss everything together so that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
5. Add the Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad and give it a light toss again. This will add a nice creamy texture to your salad.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Now’s the time to taste your salad! If you feel it needs a little more flavor, adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or a splash more lemon juice. It’s all about finding that perfect balance for your taste buds!
7. Chill Before Serving:
For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Enjoy this vibrant, healthy, and refreshing Rainbow Orzo Salad chilled or at room temperature—perfect for any meal or gathering!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great alternative if you’re looking for more fiber and nutrients. Just be aware that it might take a bit longer to cook, so check the package instructions for timing.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Rainbow Orzo Salad?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the vegetables may become a bit softer over time. Enjoy it cold or at room temperature!
Can I Add Protein to This Salad?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent additions for extra protein. Just make sure to toss them in gently so that they mix well with the salad.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
This salad is very versatile! Feel free to add other colorful veggies like shredded carrots, sweet corn, or even spinach for added nutrients and texture. Just make sure to cut everything into similar-sized pieces for even mixing!
