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–+ servings
Rainbow Orzo Salad

Rainbow Orzo Salad: A Colorful Twist for Summer Meals

Rainbow Orzo Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer, combining fresh vegetables and orzo pasta in a light vinaigrette.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Substitute with quinoa for gluten-free
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Substitute with grape or diced Roma tomatoes
  • 1 medium Cucumber Substitute with zucchini or bell peppers
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Use any color you love
  • 1/4 large Red Onion Omit for a milder version
  • 1/2 cup Feta Cheese Skip for vegan version or swap with goat cheese
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil High-quality avocado oil is also a good choice
  • 1 medium Lemon Juice Lime juice can be a refreshing substitute
  • 1 teaspoon Honey Maple syrup works for vegan option
  • Salt Adjust according to taste
  • Pepper Adjust according to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • medium bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically around 7–10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool down.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine ΒΌ cup of olive oil, lemon juice, and honey if using. Whisk until well blended and slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Chop the cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes and place all veggies together in a large mixing bowl.
  4. Once the orzo is cool, transfer it to the bowl with the chopped veggies. Add crumbled feta cheese and gently mix until evenly coated.
  5. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring every ingredient is coated in the dressing.
  6. Allow the salad to rest for about 10–15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad can be made ahead of time and stores well in the fridge. Add fresh dressing just before serving for optimal taste.

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