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Rainbow Orzo Salad

Rainbow Orzo Salad

Rainbow Orzo Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a light lunch. This colorful salad features tender orzo pasta combined with an array of fresh vegetables like red and orange bell peppers, cucumber, and corn. Tossed in a zesty lemon herb dressing, each bite bursts with flavor. Not only is it quick to prepare—ready in under 20 minutes—but it’s also healthy, packed with veggies and whole grains. Whether served as a side or a main dish topped with protein, this Rainbow Orzo Salad is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite at your next event.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves about 6

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 red bell pepper (finely chopped)
  • 1 orange bell pepper (finely chopped)
  • 1 english cucumber (finely chopped)
  • 1 small red onion (finely chopped)
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/3 cup fresh basil (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons red apple vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (half a lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook 1 ½ cups of uncooked orzo pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together ¼ cup olive oil, 3 tablespoons red apple vinegar, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo with finely chopped peppers, cucumber, red onion, corn, basil, and parsley. Drizzle with the dressing and mix well.
  4. Serve immediately or marinate in the fridge for a few hours for enhanced flavors.
  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 430mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Use fresh veggies for better taste and texture. Allowing the salad to marinate enhances its flavor. Feel free to customize by adding proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas.

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