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Rainbow Orzo Salad

Rainbow Orzo Salad: Your Colorful Path to Summer Freshness

Rainbow Orzo Salad brings vibrant colors and a delightful crunch, perfect for summer lunches or barbecues.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Can be substituted with gluten-free or whole grain options.
  • 2 medium Bell Peppers Mix colors like red, yellow, or green.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Grape or diced Roma tomatoes can work.
  • 1 medium Cucumber Can substitute with zucchini or other vegetables.
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese For a vegan option, try mozzarella or dairy-free cheese.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Extra virgin for best flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Can use apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Enhances taste and emulsifies dressing.
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for seasoning.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo pasta and cook for 7-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Chop vegetables: Dice bell peppers, slice cucumber, and halve cherry tomatoes. Set aside in a large bowl.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Add salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until emulsified.
  4. Combine cooled orzo with chopped vegetables and crumbled feta. Pour vinaigrette over and toss gently to combine.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use. If making ahead, hold back some vinaigrette to add before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, prepare ingredients ahead of time but mix with vinaigrette just before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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