This colorful rainbow orzo salad is packed with fresh veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and spinach. It’s not just pretty—it’s also good for you!
I love making this salad for lunch because it’s quick and filling. Plus, the bright colors make me smile. You can easily change the veggies based on what you have. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small rice-shaped pasta is great for salads. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try quinoa or gluten-free pasta instead. Both will give you a nice texture!
Cucumbers: Crisp cucumbers add freshness. If you’re not a fan, try diced zucchini or jicama for a crunchy alternative.
Bell Peppers: The colorful variety of bell peppers brings great flavor and nutrients. If you can’t find a specific color, any bell pepper works well! For a spicy twist, substitute with diced jalapeños.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and basil add brightness. If you don’t have them, consider using cilantro or dill. Fresh herbs make a big difference in flavor!
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemon juice brightens the salad. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh is always better!
How Can I Ensure My Orzo Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking orzo just right is key for your salad’s texture! Here are a few tips to make sure it turns out perfectly:
- Always boil your water with salt, making the pasta flavorful.
- Check the package for the cooking time, and set a timer. Al dente means it should still have a slight bite.
- After draining, rinsing the orzo with cold water stops the cooking and prevents clumping.
Keeping an eye on your orzo during cooking will help you achieve that perfect balance of tenderness without mushiness. Happy cooking!
Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup cucumber, finely diced
- 1 cup yellow bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup orange bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- ½ cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or cooked)
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes cooking the orzo, chopping vegetables, and mixing everything together. After that, just chill it in the fridge for a minimum of 30 minutes to let those delicious flavors mix!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 7-9 minutes) until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This will cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set it aside to finish cooling.
2. Chop the Vegetables:
While your orzo is cooking, take the time to finely dice the cucumber, yellow, orange, and red bell peppers. Also, chop the red onion, parsley, and basil. Try to keep your cuts uniform for a beautiful salad presentation!
3. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked orzo, diced vegetables, sweet corn, parsley, and basil together. This is where the rainbow of colors comes to life!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest (if you’re using it). Add a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple dressing will bring everything together!
5. Dressing the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated. You want all that flavor to get to every bite!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste! If you feel it needs a little more seasoning, you can add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.
7. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period helps the flavors meld beautifully together.
8. Enjoy!
Once chilled, take it out of the fridge and serve it cold or at room temperature. This Healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad is perfect as a side dish or a light main dish. Enjoy the burst of flavors and colors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with small pasta shapes like couscous, small shells, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a good toss before serving again, as the dressing may settle.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
This salad is already plant-based, so it’s vegan-friendly! Ensure that any substitutes you use, like cheese (if you decide to add it) or any dressings, are also vegan.
What Other Veggies Can I Add?
You can get creative! Try adding cherry tomatoes, carrots, spinach, or even olives for extra flavor. Just keep the texture and prep time in mind when adding new ingredients!
