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Rainbow Orzo Salad with Lemon Dressing

Rainbow Orzo Salad

A vibrant and refreshing salad made with orzo, colorful vegetables, creamy feta, and a zesty lemon herb dressing, perfect for busy weeknights, lunches, and picnics.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup orzo Cooked according to package directions until al dente.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Adds sweetness and color.
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced Any color works well.
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced For a cool, refreshing bite.
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced Adds a briny flavor.
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped Use sparingly for a mild flavor.
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled For creaminess and tang.
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped Adds a clean, grassy note.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped Optional for added aroma.
Lemon Herb Dressing
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice Preferably freshly squeezed.
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard Helps emulsify the dressing.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp honey Balances the acidity.
  • 1 tsp salt To taste.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper To taste.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the orzo according to package directions. Drain and let it cool slightly.
  2. While the orzo is cooking, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the bell peppers and cucumber, slice the olives, and chop the red onion and herbs.
Make the Dressing
  1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
Combine Salad
  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, chopped vegetables, feta, parsley, and basil.
  2. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
  3. Allow the salad to rest for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Serving
  1. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Refresh with a splash of dressing if it has absorbed too much liquid.

Notes

Customize the vegetable mix based on available ingredients. This salad travels well for picnics and is great for meal prep. Store leftovers in the fridge and refresh with additional dressing if needed.