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Looking for a fresh, flavorful orzo side dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? This gluten-free pasta salad is packed with crisp veggies, zesty dressing, and a burst of Mediterranean flair. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch, this orzo side dish will become your go-to recipe for any occasion!
A Little Story Behind the Recipe
I first discovered this orzo side dish during a summer gathering with friends. Everyone was raving about the vibrant colors and refreshing taste. As someone who follows a gluten-free diet, I was thrilled to find a pasta salad that fit my needs without sacrificing flavor. Now, it’s a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share it with you!
Get Ready to Cook!
This orzo side dish is simple to prepare and full of fresh ingredients. Let’s dive into what makes it so special.
What to Expect
- Time: 25 minutes (including prep and cooking)
- Difficulty: Easy
Before You Begin
Here are a few tips to ensure your orzo side dish turns out perfectly:
- Rinse the cooked orzo under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep it from sticking.
- Chop your veggies finely for a uniform texture—this makes every bite delightful!
- Adjust the dressing to your taste. Love it tangy? Add a little more lemon juice!
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Salad | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Uncooked gluten-free orzo | 8 ounces (about 1 1/2 cups) |
| Red bell pepper | 1 |
| Orange bell pepper | 1 |
| Cucumber | 1 |
| Corn | 1 cup |
| Diced red onion | 1 cup |
| Diced cherry tomatoes | 1 cup |
| Fresh chopped basil | ⅓ cup |
| Dressing | Quantity |
| Olive oil | ¼ cup |
| Red wine vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Dijon mustard | 2 tablespoons |
| Minced garlic | 2 teaspoons |
| Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt (or to taste) | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Guide
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gluten-free orzo according to package instructions. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- While the orzo cooks, finely chop the red bell pepper, orange bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. For ease, use a vegetable chopper if available.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, chopped veggies, corn, and fresh basil.
- Pour the dressing over the orzo and veggie mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Pointers for Perfection & How to Store
For the best results, let your orzo side dish sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you’re making it ahead, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick toss before serving to refresh the flavors.
If gluten-free orzo isn’t available, feel free to swap it with another small pasta shape like elbows. For more delicious gluten-free recipes, check out this Gluten Free Pasta Salad Recipe.
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Orzo Side Dish
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Vibrant Gluten-Free Orzo Side Dish is a celebration of fresh colors and textures. Tender gluten-free orzo pasta is tossed with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and sweet bell peppers, then brought together with a zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette. It is a light, refreshing, and versatile dish that works perfectly as a side for grilled meats or as a vegetarian main lunch.
Ingredients
— The Pasta —
1 ½ cups Gluten-Free Orzo pasta (made from cassava, rice, or corn)
Salt for the boiling water
— The Mix-Ins —
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 yellow or orange bell pepper, diced
⅓ cup red onion, finely chopped
⅓ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced (optional)
½ cup crumbled feta cheese (use vegan feta for dairy-free)
¼ cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
— The Dressing —
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gluten-free orzo and cook according to the package directions (usually 7–9 minutes) until al dente. Drain and rinse immediately under cold water to stop the cooking and prevent sticking.
2. Prep Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and herbs.
3. Make Dressing: In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
4. Assemble: In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled orzo, prepared vegetables, olives, and fresh herbs.
5. Toss: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Fold in the crumbled feta cheese last.
6. Serve: Serve immediately at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Notes
Orzo Choice: Brands like Jovial (cassava) or DeLallo (corn/rice) offer great gluten-free orzo options that hold their texture well.
Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors soak into the pasta. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Protein Boost: Add a can of drained chickpeas or grilled chicken breast to turn this side dish into a complete meal.
Dairy-Free: Simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 280
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 10
Your Burning Questions Answered!
Can I make this orzo side dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This orzo side dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to blend. Store it in the fridge and enjoy it within 3 days.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! This orzo side dish uses gluten-free orzo, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Just ensure all your ingredients, including the Dijon mustard, are certified gluten-free.
Can I add protein to this orzo side dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese would make excellent additions to this orzo side dish for a heartier meal.
Dig In & Enjoy!
This vibrant orzo side dish is a celebration of fresh flavors and simple ingredients. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or enjoying it as a light lunch, it’s sure to impress. For more delicious ideas, follow me on Pinterest.