This colorful orzo salad is packed with fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta shape is perfect for salad. If you need a gluten-free option, try using quinoa or rice. It’ll change the texture but still taste great!
Chickpeas: They add protein and a nice texture. If you’re not a fan, you can swap them with black beans or edamame for a different flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: Use a mix of colors for more visual appeal. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, any fresh tomato diced will work. Just make sure it’s ripe for the best taste!
Cucumber: I like using English cucumbers since they’re less watery and have fewer seeds. If you’re using regular ones, consider scooping out the seeds before dicing.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish! In a pinch, bottled lemon juice works, but fresh is always preferable. Lime juice can also be a zesty substitute.
Why Is Cooking Orzo Properly Important?
Cooking orzo to the right texture is key to a great salad. Here are some simple steps to follow:
- Start with plenty of salted water. This helps flavor the pasta.
- Cook it to al dente, as it will continue to soften after draining.
- Rinse the orzo under cold water right after draining. This stops the cooking process and keeps the pasta firm.
Perfectly cooked orzo ensures that your salad has a pleasant bite and doesn’t get mushy. Enjoy your meal prep!
Easy Orzo Salad with Fresh Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow if possible)
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 lemon, juiced (plus lemon slices for garnish)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This refreshing orzo salad will take about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the orzo and another 10 minutes chopping veggies and mixing it all together. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by cooking the orzo pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and add the orzo. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to cool it off. Make sure it’s thoroughly drained so your salad doesn’t get soggy.
2. Prep the Veggies:
While the orzo is cooking, wash and chop your fresh veggies. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, drained chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, chopped parsley, and sliced green onions. This mix of colors and textures will make your salad vibrant and appealing!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. This simple dressing will bring all the flavors together and add a nice zing to your salad!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the orzo and veggie mixture. Toss gently to combine everything well without breaking the delicate ingredients. Taste and make any adjustments—maybe a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your salad with lemon slices and a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs if you like. You can serve the salad immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for a bit. This salad is great served cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a quick lunch. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Orzo Salad with Fresh Veggies
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo works just as well and adds a nutty flavor along with extra fiber. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as whole wheat pasta can take a bit longer to cook than regular orzo.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Orzo Salad?
You can store leftover orzo salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, and feel free to add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice to freshen it up!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! This salad is super versatile. Feel free to add ingredients like bell peppers, spinach, feta cheese, or olives for more flavor and texture. Just keep the ratio of orzo to veggies balanced for the best results!
Is This Salad Vegan?
Yes! This orzo salad is completely plant-based, so it’s perfect for vegans. Just double-check any dressings or extra toppings you choose to ensure they fit within a vegan diet.
