Caprese Orzo Pasta Salad (Printable version)
Tender orzo pasta tossed with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil in a simple balsamic dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings.
# What you'll need:
→ Pasta
01 - 1 cup orzo pasta
→ Vegetables & Cheese
02 - 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved
04 - ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
→ Dressing
05 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
06 - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
07 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
08 - ½ teaspoon sea salt
09 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Optional Garnish
10 - Cracked black pepper, to taste
11 - Extra basil leaves
# Directions:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well in a colander and rinse under cold running water to halt cooking. Transfer to a large bowl and allow to cool completely.
02 - Once the orzo has cooled, add halved cherry tomatoes, halved mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves to the same bowl. Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
03 - In a small bowl or jar, combine extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake until fully emulsified and smooth.
04 - Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the pasta mixture. Use a large spoon or salad tongs to toss gently, ensuring all ingredients are lightly coated with dressing.
05 - Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and cracked black pepper. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- This salad travels beautifully and actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to mingle together
- It hits that perfect sweet spot between elegant and casual, working equally well for weeknight dinners and fancy summer parties
02 -
- Rinse the orzo under cold water until its completely cool to prevent the residual heat from wilting the fresh basil and melting the mozzarella
- This salad actually benefits from sitting in the refrigerator for an hour before serving, letting the dressing penetrate the pasta
03 -
- Use a Microplane to grate a little fresh Parmesan over the top right before serving for an extra layer of savory depth
- Let the salad sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors fully awaken