This Rainbow Orzo Salad is as beautiful as it is delicious. Bursting with fresh, crunchy vegetables, tender orzo pasta, and tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette, it’s a dish that shines at picnics, potlucks, or weekday lunches. Packed with flavor and color, this salad is light, satisfying, and endlessly customizable.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
🌈 Vibrant veggies for a stunning, rainbow-colored plate
🍋 Zesty lemon dressing brings a bright, refreshing flavor
🍝 Tender orzo pasta adds a hearty, satisfying base
🥗 Great for meal prep, parties, or side dishes
🌱 Vegetarian-friendly and easily made vegan or gluten-free
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 ½ cups dry orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup chopped cucumber
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup baby spinach or arugula, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Boil orzo according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prep the Veggies
While the pasta cooks, chop all your vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the orzo, chopped veggies, and herbs. Pour over the dressing and toss well to coat.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Top with feta and more herbs if desired. Chill for 30 minutes for best flavor or serve immediately.
Variations
- Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra protein
- Toss in olives, capers, or sun-dried tomatoes for bold flavor
- Use gluten-free orzo for dietary needs
- Make it creamy with a spoonful of Greek yogurt dressing
Perfect For:
- Summer barbecues & cookouts
- Healthy meal prep lunches
- Vegetarian side dishes
- Refreshing no-fuss meals
Final Thoughts
This Rainbow Orzo Salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate. With fresh ingredients, a zingy dressing, and a hearty pasta base, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll return to all season long. Make it once and it’ll become your go-to for every gathering, picnic, or vibrant lunch.