Description
Rainbow Orzo Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings an explosion of color and flavor to your table. Featuring tender orzo pasta mixed with a medley of fresh vegetables, this salad is perfect for picnics, BBQs, or as a light lunch. Its delightful crunch and zesty dressing make it a crowd-pleaser during warm weather gatherings. Quick to prepare in just 15 minutes, it’s also make-ahead friendly, allowing you to enjoy nutritious meals effortlessly. Whether served as a side or enjoyed on its own, Rainbow Orzo Salad is sure to brighten any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/2 orange bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the orzo pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the dressing ingredients until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo with cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, red onion (if using), feta cheese, and basil; toss gently.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss again; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for enhanced flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 5mg