Caprese Orzo Pasta Salad (Printable)
Tender orzo paired with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil in a tangy 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, 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
# How to Make It:
01 - Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let cool completely.
02 - In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
03 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
04 - Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with extra basil and cracked black pepper, if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- The orzo soaks up that balsamic dressing like tiny flavor sponges
- You can prep it ahead and it actually tastes better the next day
02 -
- Rinse the pasta thoroughly with cold water or it will keep cooking and turn mushy
- Add the dressing just before serving if you plan to make it hours ahead
03 -
- Taste your cherry tomatoes first and add a pinch of sugar if they are too acidic
- Use the best balsamic vinegar you can afford since it is the star flavor