Description
Rainbow Orzo Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings a burst of color and flavor to any table. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or light lunches, this salad combines al dente orzo pasta with a medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. The zesty dressing ties everything together, enhancing the natural flavors without overpowering them. Not only is it visually appealing, but it’s also quick to prepare, allowing you to enjoy more time outdoors while savoring delicious, wholesome food.
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 (optional)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, sliced
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked orzo pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water until cooled.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple vinegar, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with cherry tomatoes, orange bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, cucumber, red onion (if using), feta cheese, and fresh basil. Toss gently to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss again to ensure everything is coated with dressing. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg