Caprese Orzo salad

Caprese Orzo Salad is a simple, yet refreshing salad consisting of orzo pasta, grape tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil. It is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for picnics or gatherings.

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 10

Total Time 30

Servings

Calories 563.1kcal

Ingredients

1 ½ cups Uncooked Orzo Pasta
2 cups Cherry Tomatoes Halved
8 oz Fresh Mozzarella Pearls or 8 oz Fresh Mozzarella Cubed
1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves Chopped
⅓ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
1 Clove Garlic Minced
Salt and Pepper to Taste

Instructions

Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions in a pot of boiling water, making sure to add a pinch of salt to the water for seasoning. Cook until al dente.
Once the orzo is cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool down the pasta quickly.
Shake off any excess water and transfer the orzo to a large mixing bowl, setting it aside for assembly.
Add the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls (or cubed mozzarella), and chopped basil leaves to the bowl of cooked orzo pasta.
Toss the ingredients together gently, making sure to combine them evenly.
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
Pour the dressing over the orzo salad, evenly distributing it throughout the mixture.
Gently toss and mix the Caprese Orzo Salad, making sure the dressing coats all the ingredients.
Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Before serving, give the Caprese Orzo Salad a quick toss and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Nutrition