This colorful rainbow orzo salad is packed with fresh veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. It’s light, healthy, and super fun to eat!
I love how vibrant it looks on my table—it makes me feel like a chef! Perfect for picnics or just a quick lunch, it’s a salad that brings smiles. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo has a lovely texture that works great in salads. If you’re gluten-free, consider using quinoa or rice instead. Just make sure to cook them according to package instructions!
Corn: Sweet corn adds a nice crunch. You can use frozen corn when fresh isn’t available, or even black beans for a different twist.
Bell Peppers: Red and orange peppers bring sweetness, but feel free to swap in yellow or green ones depending on your taste or what’s on hand. For heat, jalapeños work too!
Cucumber: This veggie provides a refreshing crunch. If you prefer, zucchini can be used instead, or even cherry tomatoes for a juicy pop.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and basil are the stars here, but don’t shy away from experimenting with mint or cilantro for a unique flavor.
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking orzo can be easy if you keep a few tips in mind! Follow these steps for perfect orzo:
- Use plenty of salted water to mimic boiling pasta. This adds flavor.
- Cook until al dente, as it will continue cooking slightly when you mix it with the dressing.
- Once drained, rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process, and prevent it from becoming sticky.
Easy Rainbow Orzo Salad with Fresh Veggies
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 cup orange bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious rainbow orzo salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in total, you’ll be looking at around 45 minutes to have a colorful and tasty salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set it aside.
2. Combine the Fresh Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, sweet corn, diced red and orange bell peppers, cucumber, red onion, chopped parsley, and basil. Toss everything together gently so it’s mixed evenly.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until it’s well combined. This dressing will add a bright flavor to the salad.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the orzo and veggie mixture. Toss everything carefully to make sure all the ingredients are coated in the dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend together. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy it cold or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo is a great choice for this salad, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the veggies may lose some crunch over time.
Can I Add More Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the salad with additional ingredients like cherry tomatoes, avocado, olives, or even some feta cheese for added richness. Just remember to adjust the seasoning as needed!
Is This Salad Vegan-Friendly?
Yes! This rainbow orzo salad is vegan-friendly, containing all plant-based ingredients. It’s a lovely option for those following a vegan diet or looking for a light, healthy meal.
