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Caprese Orzo Salad

Caprese Orzo Salad

Craving something light yet satisfying? The Caprese Orzo Salad combines tender orzo, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella for a delicious summer dish. Perfect for picnics or as a side for your favorite grilled proteins, this easy recipe will become a go-to for warm-weather gatherings!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads, Side Dishes
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz orzo pasta
  • to taste Kosher salt for boiling the pasta
  • 1/2 cup pesto
  • 1 pint grape tomatoes halved
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls or chopped fresh mozzarella
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • to taste Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • to taste Balsamic glaze for drizzling, optional

Equipment

  • Wooden Spoon
  • Chef's Knife
  • Large Pot

Method
 

  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of kosher salt to the water; this will help season the orzo as it cooks. The water should be bubbling vigorously before adding the pasta.
  2. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the orzo pasta to the pot. Cook according to the package directions until the pasta is al dente. This usually takes around eight to ten minutes, but be sure to check the package for specific timing.
  3. When the orzo is cooked to your liking, use a colander to drain it. Rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This step is crucial, as it helps keep the orzo from becoming mushy.
  4. Transfer the drained orzo to a large mixing bowl. This will be the base for your Caprese Orzo Salad, so ensure it's big enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
  5. Now, it’s time to add the flavor! Pour in the pesto and stir gently to ensure that every piece of orzo is coated in that vibrant green sauce. This is where the magic begins.
  6. Next, incorporate the grape tomatoes that you’ve halved. Their bright color and sweetness will complement the pasta beautifully.
  7. Add the fresh mozzarella pearls or chopped mozzarella. The creaminess of the cheese adds a rich texture that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
  8. Pour in the lemon juice and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together gently until well combined. At this point, you can taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  9. You have the option to let the salad chill in the refrigerator for a short time if you prefer it cold. Alternatively, you can serve it immediately at room temperature.
  10. Just before serving, drizzle a little of the balsamic glaze over the top if desired. This adds a beautiful touch and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Notes

While the Caprese Orzo Salad is already delicious on its own, there are many fun ways to switch it up! Here are some creative tips to enhance your salad experience:
  • Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop!
  • Freezing: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have a lot of leftovers, you can freeze the orzo separately and add fresh ingredients when ready to eat.
  • Pairing: Serve this salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a complete summer meal.
  • Adding Protein: For a heartier dish, consider adding grilled shrimp or chickpeas to increase the protein content.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or arugula to create your own twist on the classic recipe.