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+ servings
Rainbow Orzo Salad

Rainbow Orzo Salad: Colorful, Fresh, and Easy Delight

A delightful Rainbow Orzo Salad that is colorful, fresh, and quick to prepare, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 205

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta or gluten-free pasta/quinoa for gluten-free
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes may substitute with grape or Roma tomatoes
  • 1 cup Cucumber use English cucumber for fewer seeds or bell peppers
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion replace with green onion for milder taste or omit
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers (various colors) may substitute with carrots or zucchini
  • 1/2 cup Feta Cheese use goat cheese or skip for vegan
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil use extra virgin for robust flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice fresh lemon juice preferred
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard omit for milder dressing
  • 1 tablespoon Honey (or Maple Syrup for vegan) adjust to taste

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • spatula
  • whisk
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 7-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. While the orzo is cooling, wash and prepare your vegetables. Dice the cherry tomatoes, chop the cucumber, slice the red onion, and finely chop the bell peppers. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Once the orzo has cooled completely, add it to the bowl with the vegetables. Crumble feta cheese over the mixture and gently toss everything together.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey until combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  5. Pour the dressing over the orzo and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together until well coated.
  6. Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Serve in individual bowls or on a large platter. Enjoy as a side at BBQs or as a light lunch.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 205kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 6gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use the freshest vegetables for the best results. Reserve some dressing to prevent sogginess. Consider chilling the salad for enhanced flavors.

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