Rainbow Orzo Salad – Vibrant & Easy Meal Idea

Brighten up your plate with this stunning Rainbow Orzo Salad! Packed with colorful vegetables, tender orzo, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate. This vibrant and easy meal idea is perfect for potlucks, meal prep, or a light lunch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (for cooking orzo)
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 orange bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cucumber, deseeded and diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional)
• For the Lemon-Herb Dressing:
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook the orzo: Bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions (usually 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool completely.
2. Prepare the vegetables: While the orzo cools, dice the red, yellow, and orange bell peppers, cucumber, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion. Chop the fresh parsley and mint (if using).
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, diced bell peppers, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Add the crumbled feta cheese (if using), chopped parsley, and mint.
5. Dress and serve: Pour the lemon-herb dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld. Enjoy cold or at room temperature.
6. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.