Caprese Orzo Pasta Salad (Printable View)
Tender orzo pasta with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and basil in balsamic vinaigrette.
# What You Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 1 cup orzo pasta (200 grams)
→ Vegetables & Cheese
02 - 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved (225 grams)
03 - 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved (125 grams)
04 - ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn (15 grams)
→ 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 fresh basil leaves
# How-To Steps:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain thoroughly in a colander and rinse under cold running water to halt cooking. Transfer to a tray and allow to cool completely.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, halved mozzarella balls, and torn fresh basil leaves. Toss gently to distribute evenly.
03 - In a small bowl or glass jar, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and black pepper until emulsified and smooth.
04 - Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the orzo mixture. Using a large spoon or salad tongs, fold gently until all ingredients are evenly coated with dressing.
05 - Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh basil leaves and cracked black pepper. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The orzo soaks up that tangy balsamic dressing like little flavor sponges
- It travels beautifully and actually tastes better after the ingredients hang out together
02 -
- Rinsing the pasta under cold water stops it from becoming one giant gummy clump
- Let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving so the flavors really mingle
03 -
- Buy mozzarella floating in liquid rather than vacuum sealed for the creamiest texture
- If making ahead, dress the pasta and add delicate ingredients right before serving