Bright, zesty, and bursting with vibrant colors, this Orzo Pea and Pepper Salad is the perfect side dish or light meal for any occasion. Featuring tender orzo pasta, crisp red and yellow bell peppers, sweet peas, and a refreshing lemon-olive oil dressing, this salad offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Fresh parsley adds a herbal twist, while optional crumbled feta cheese lends a creamy, tangy touch. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is as simple as it is delicious, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, picnics, or potlucks. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying. Keywords: orzo salad, summer recipe, easy pasta salad, healthy side dish.
Bring a medium pot of salted water to boil.
Add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool, then set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, dice the red bell pepper and yellow bell pepper into small, bite-sized pieces.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and ground black pepper to make the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, frozen peas (they'll thaw in the salad), diced bell peppers, chopped parsley, and feta cheese if using.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning, if needed, with additional salt or lemon juice.
Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving size | 870.8 grams (870.8g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 1623 |
Total Fat 72.80g | 93% |
Saturated Fat 24.30g | 122% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g | |
Cholesterol 107mg | 36% |
Sodium 2552mg | 111% |
Total Carbohydrate 199.50g | 73% |
Dietary Fiber 23.50g | 84% |
Total Sugars 19.80g | |
Protein 54.30g | 109% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 707mg | 54% |
Iron 12mg | 66% |
Potassium 1218mg | 26% |
Source of Calories