This Fresh Orzo Salad is bright and refreshing, packed with delicious cherry tomatoes, crunchy vegetables, and creamy mozzarella. It’s like a party in a bowl!
The best part? It takes just a few minutes to toss everything together. I love making this as a quick lunch or side, and it always gets a smile from family and friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta shape is perfect for salads. If orzo isn’t available, you can substitute it with couscous, quinoa, or small pasta shapes like ditalini or mini shells.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor. If you prefer, you can use grape tomatoes or even diced larger tomatoes. Just make sure they’re ripe for the best taste!
Fresh Mozzarella: I love using bocconcini for their creaminess. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, try part-skim mozzarella or even feta for a different flavor profile.
Fresh Basil: Basil gives this salad a fresh taste. If you can’t find fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but remember to use less since dried herbs are more concentrated. Other options like parsley or arugula also work well!
How Can I Cook Orzo Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking orzo is straightforward, but there are some tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time. Remember, the key is timing and giving it a good rinse!
- Bring a pot of water or broth to a rolling boil, which will help cook the orzo evenly.
- Cook it for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente; taste a few pieces to check!
- Once it’s done, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps it from becoming mushy.
- Set it aside to cool completely before mixing it into your salad.
How to Make Fresh Orzo Salad With Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved or quartered
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh orzo salad takes about 20 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s quick to put together, and you’ll want to let it sit for at least 15 minutes for the flavors to blend beautifully. So, total time is around 35 minutes—perfect for a delicious side or light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a medium pot of water or vegetable broth to a boil on your stove. Once it’s boiling, add the orzo pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s done, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped fresh basil. This colorful mix is already looking wonderful—feel free to give it a gentle stir to combine!
3. Combine All Ingredients:
Now, add the cooked and cooled orzo to the bowl with the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. It’s time to bring it all together!
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a gentle toss to make sure that all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
5. Let It Sit:
For the best flavor, let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before you serve it. This allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully. You can cover it and leave it on the counter or refrigerate it if you prefer.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. You can even garnish it with extra basil leaves for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing orzo salad!
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can swap it for any small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead! Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, I recommend waiting to add the olive oil and balsamic vinegar until right before serving.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will last for up to 3 days. The flavors may intensify as it sits, so feel free to give it a good toss before serving again!
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, you can use feta or cubed mozzarella cheese. Feta will add a tangy flavor, while regular mozzarella will offer a more mild taste. Just make sure to adjust the salt accordingly as feta can be quite salty!
