Description
Rainbow Orzo Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that combines colorful vegetables with tender orzo pasta, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings, picnics, or light lunches. This flavorful salad bursts with the taste of fresh herbs, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing that ties everything together beautifully. Not only is it visually appealing, but it’s also nutritious and quick to prepare—perfect for those busy days when you need something delicious yet easy. With its versatility, you can serve it as a side at barbecues or enjoy it on its own as a satisfying meal any time of the year.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- 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
Instructions
- Cook the orzo: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, honey, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, red onion (if using), feta cheese, and basil. Toss gently.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss again to coat evenly.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 8mg