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Fresh Caprese Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe Easy Homemade with Creamy Mozzarella

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A quick and easy Caprese-inspired orzo pasta salad featuring creamy mozzarella pearls, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a tangy balsamic dressing. Perfect for summer, picnics, and light meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1½ cups (about 300 grams) dry orzo pasta
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) fresh mozzarella pearls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
  • 2 cups (about 300 grams) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1 small clove garlic, finely minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: sprinkle of toasted pine nuts

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1½ cups (300 g) orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions—usually about 8 to 10 minutes—until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste a grain a minute before time’s up to avoid overcooking.
  2. Drain the orzo in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Shake off excess water and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) balsamic vinegar, and the finely minced clove of garlic. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until emulsified and fragrant.
  4. To the cooled orzo, gently fold in 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes, 8 ounces (225 g) mozzarella pearls, and 1 cup torn fresh basil leaves. Be gentle to avoid breaking the mozzarella.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss lightly until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, optionally sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or red pepper flakes.

Notes

Do not overcook the orzo; rinse under cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent clumping. Use fresh mozzarella pearls for best texture. Whisk dressing thoroughly to emulsify. Toss gently to avoid breaking mozzarella. Chill at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Optional additions include toasted pine nuts or red pepper flakes for texture and heat.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese salad, orzo pasta salad, mozzarella pearls, fresh basil, balsamic dressing, summer salad, easy pasta salad, vegetarian

Find it online: https://larameals.com/fresh-caprese-orzo-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-with-creamy-mozzarella/