Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad Recipe

Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad is a burst of color and flavor that can make any boring lunch feel like a picnic in the park. Imagine tender orzo pasta mingling with juicy grilled vegetables while you bask in the sunshine. You can practically hear the grill sizzling as those vibrant veggies dance their way to caramelized perfection.

The aroma wafting through your kitchen while you whip up this dish will have your family racing to the table faster than you can say “grilled vegetable orzo salad.” This recipe is not just about food; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table and enjoying the simple pleasure of good company and great flavors.

Sometimes I catch my family sneaking spoonfuls straight from the bowl when I make this salad; it’s that good!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Orzo Pasta: Use about 1 cup of dry orzo for a generous serving size; look for whole wheat options for added nutrition.
• Bell Peppers: Choose a mix of red, yellow, and green for sweetness and color; they add crunch when grilled.
• Zucchini: One medium zucchini adds a lovely texture; slice it into rounds for even grilling.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Use 1 cup; they burst with flavor when roasted and add juiciness to the salad.
• Red Onion: Half an onion gives a sweet bite; grill until caramelized for maximum flavor.
• Olive Oil: Drizzle on vegetables before grilling; it enhances flavors while preventing sticking.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens up the dish with its zesty kick—don’t skip it!
• Feta Cheese (optional): Crumble over the top before serving if you want a creamy contrast to the crispy veggies.
• Fresh Herbs (Basil/Parsley): A handful of chopped fresh herbs adds freshness; basil pairs wonderfully with the grilled flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush grates lightly with oil to prevent sticking—this helps your veggies achieve those beautiful grill marks.

Cook the Orzo Pasta: In a pot of salted boiling water, cook 1 cup of orzo according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside—the perfect base for our colorful medley.

Grill Your Vegetables: Toss sliced bell peppers, zucchini rounds, halved cherry tomatoes, and onion slices in olive oil. Grill them until they’re charred and tender—usually about 5-7 minutes per side.

Mingle Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo and grilled vegetables. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add Finishing Touches: If desired, toss in crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped herbs. Give it another gentle mix—this is where all those flavors come together beautifully!

Enjoy this vibrant dish warm or chilled; either way, it’s sure to bring smiles at your table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by grilling your vegetables to bring out their natural sweetness, then cook orzo while they sizzle. Combine them when ready for a harmonious blend of warmth and flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or add chickpeas for extra protein. A sprinkle of feta cheese also adds a creamy touch that elevates the dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or enjoy cold for a refreshing meal.

Sharing this recipe always brings back fond memories of family barbecues where laughter mingled with sizzling sounds. Friends often ask for seconds, proving just how much they love this dish!

FAQ

Can I use other grains instead of orzo?

Yes, farro or quinoa are great substitutes for orzo in this salad.

How do I prevent my veggies from burning on the grill?

Make sure to toss them in oil and grill at medium heat to avoid burning.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and tastes even better after marinating overnight.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad is a colorful, nutritious dish that combines tender orzo pasta with charred seasonal vegetables, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings or quick weeknight meals.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup dry orzo pasta
• 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ red onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Handful of fresh basil or parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
2. Cook orzo in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Toss bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and onion in olive oil. Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side until tender and charred.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo and grilled vegetables. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture; season with salt and pepper.
5. If desired, add crumbled feta and fresh herbs. Mix gently to combine.
6. Serve warm or chilled.

Notes

• Feel free to substitute your favorite seasonal vegetables or add chickpeas for extra protein.
•  This salad can be made ahead of time; flavors improve when marinated overnight.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 5mg