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Rainbow Orzo Salad

Rainbow Orzo Salad: Colorful, Crunchy, and Ready in 30 Minutes

A vibrant and healthy Rainbow Orzo Salad that captures the essence of summer, perfect for quick meals or potlucks.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Feel free to use gluten-free or whole-grain pasta for a healthier twist.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Can substitute with grape or diced Roma tomatoes.
  • 1 cup Cucumber Provides a refreshing crunch.
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Use any color or swap with other veggies like carrots or radishes.
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese Consider goat cheese or mozzarella, or omit for a dairy-free option.
  • 0.5 medium Red Onion Soaking can mellow its intensity.
  • 0.5 cup Fresh Herbs (e.g., parsley, basil) Use any fresh herbs available.
For the Dressing
  • 0.25 cup Olive Oil Substitute with avocado oil if desired.
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar make good alternatives.
  • 1 tbsp Honey or Maple Syrup For vegan option, use agave syrup.
  • to taste Salt Adjust to taste.
  • to taste Pepper Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. Wash and chop your fresh vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, and cut the bell peppers into thin strips.
  3. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, prepared vegetables, and dressing. Toss gently to coat.
  5. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs before serving.
  6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes after tossing to enhance flavor. Store extra dressing separately for freshness.

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