Description
Rainbow Orzo Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer meals or gatherings. This colorful salad is loaded with fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and tender orzo pasta, all drizzled with a zesty lemon herb dressing that ties everything together beautifully. Not only is it visually appealing, but it’s also quick to prepare—ready in just 20 minutes! Whether served as a side dish at a barbecue or as a light main course for a picnic, this Rainbow Orzo Salad will brighten any meal with its lively flavors and nutritious ingredients. Enjoy this healthy option that’s both satisfying and easy to customize!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 orange bell pepper
- 1 English cucumber
- 1 small red onion
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- Fresh basil and parsley
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red apple vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the orzo in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red apple vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo with chopped vegetables and herbs. Drizzle with the dressing and toss well.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve immediately or let marinate in the refrigerator for enhanced flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize the salad by adding other seasonal veggies like cherry tomatoes or avocados. For extra crunch and nutrition, consider adding nuts such as almonds or walnuts. This salad can be made ahead of time; allowing it to chill in the refrigerator for an hour boosts its refreshing qualities.