This fresh and vibrant Caprese Orzo Pasta Salad brings together the classic Italian flavors of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil in a delightful pasta format. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light lunch, this salad captures all the essence of a traditional Caprese salad while adding the satisfying heartiness of tender orzo pasta. The simple balsamic dressing ties everything together beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add the cooked orzo to the mixing bowl with the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Variations
- Mediterranean Caprese Orzo – Add 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, and 2 tablespoons pine nuts for a more complex Mediterranean flavor profile.
- Protein-Packed Caprese Orzo – Incorporate 1 cup of grilled chicken breast (diced) or chickpeas to transform this side dish into a complete meal.
- Seasonal Caprese Orzo – Substitute cherry tomatoes with diced heirloom tomatoes in summer, or add roasted bell peppers and zucchini for a heartier winter version.
Cooking Notes
- Perfect Pasta Texture – Cook orzo just until al dente as it will continue to absorb liquid from the dressing. Overcooking will result in mushy pasta that breaks apart when mixed.
- Temperature Matters – Always rinse the cooked orzo with cold water immediately after draining to stop the cooking process and prevent the pasta from sticking together.
- Cheese Selection – Use high-quality fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) rather than regular mozzarella for the best creamy texture and authentic Italian flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Summer Barbecue Side – Serve alongside grilled vegetables, garlic bread, and other Italian-inspired dishes for a complete outdoor dining experience.
- Light Lunch Bowl – Pair with mixed greens, a drizzle of extra balsamic glaze, and crusty bread for a satisfying midday meal.
- Picnic Perfect – Pack in portable containers for beach trips, potlucks, or outdoor gatherings where it can be served at room temperature without losing flavor.
Tips
- Make-Ahead Magic – Prepare the salad 2-4 hours in advance and refrigerate to allow flavors to meld beautifully. Add fresh basil just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and aroma.
- Quality Ingredients Rule – Use the ripest cherry tomatoes you can find and high-grade extra virgin olive oil for the most flavorful results. Fresh basil makes all the difference over dried.
- Dressing Balance – Taste and adjust the olive oil to balsamic vinegar ratio according to your preference. Some prefer a more tangy dressing, while others like it mellower and more oil-forward.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 280mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time? – Yes, this salad actually improves when made 2-4 hours ahead as the flavors have time to meld. Store covered in the refrigerator and add fresh basil just before serving for the best appearance and flavor.
- How long will this Caprese orzo salad keep in the refrigerator? – The salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container. You may need to add a splash of olive oil before serving as the pasta absorbs the dressing over time.
- Can I substitute regular mozzarella for the fresh mozzarella balls? – While fresh mozzarella balls provide the best texture and authentic flavor, you can substitute with cubed regular mozzarella or even feta cheese for a different twist. Just be aware that the texture and taste will be slightly different.
- What can I use instead of orzo pasta? – Small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even couscous work well as substitutes. Just adjust cooking times according to package directions and maintain the same proportions for the best results.
Conclusion
This Fresh and Flavorful Caprese Orzo Pasta Salad perfectly captures the essence of summer in every bite. With its combination of tender pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, it’s a dish that celebrates the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, packing a picnic lunch, or simply looking for a refreshing side dish, this versatile salad delivers both flavor and visual appeal. The recipe’s flexibility allows for countless variations while maintaining its Italian-inspired charm, making it a reliable go-to recipe that will become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
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Caprese Orzo Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This fresh and vibrant Caprese Orzo Pasta Salad brings together the classic Italian flavors of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil in a delightful pasta format. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light lunch, this salad captures all the essence of a traditional Caprese salad while adding the satisfying heartiness of tender orzo pasta. The simple balsamic dressing ties everything together beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add the cooked orzo to the mixing bowl with the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For best results, use the freshest ingredients possible. The salad can be made up to 4 hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator. If making ahead, you may need to add a bit more olive oil before serving as the pasta will absorb some of the dressing. Feel free to add other Mediterranean ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or pine nuts for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-cook (except pasta)
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: caprese, orzo, pasta salad, summer, vegetarian, Italian, fresh, mozzarella, basil, tomatoes