Rainbow Orzo Salad is a colorful, refreshing dish packed with vibrant vegetables, tender orzo pasta, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch, this salad offers a delicious balance of textures and flavors—crisp, chewy, tangy, and fresh—all in one bowl.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

orzo pastacherry tomatoes (halved)red bell pepper (diced)yellow bell pepper (diced)cucumber (diced)red onion (finely chopped)shredded carrotsbaby spinach or arugula (chopped)feta cheese (crumbled)olive oillemon juice or red wine vinegargarlic (minced)salt and black pepperfresh parsley or basil (chopped)

directions

Cook the orzo according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, red onion, shredded carrots, and chopped greens.

Add the crumbled feta and fresh herbs.

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 as a side dish or 3-4 as a main course.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesCooling and assembly time: 10 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use quinoa or couscous instead of orzo for a gluten-free or grain alternative.

Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for added protein.

Swap feta for mozzarella pearls or goat cheese.

Toss in olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.

Use a store-bought vinaigrette for quicker prep.

storage/reheating

Store Rainbow Orzo Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.Do not freeze, as the vegetables will lose their texture.

FAQs

Can I make Rainbow Orzo Salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Is this salad vegan?

It can be—just omit the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.

What vegetables can I add?

Any colorful veggies work well—try corn, zucchini, radishes, or snap peas.

Can I serve it warm?

Yes, though it’s typically served chilled, it also tastes great slightly warm.

How do I keep the orzo from sticking?

Rinse the cooked orzo under cold water and toss with a bit of oil before adding to the salad.

Is this a good picnic salad?

Absolutely! It holds up well and tastes even better after chilling.

Conclusion

Rainbow Orzo Salad is a bright and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping lunches for the week, this colorful salad brings freshness and variety to any table. Its versatility makes it a must-have in your recipe collection.