This colorful orzo salad is packed with fresh veggies and creamy mozzarella. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for picnics or quick lunches!
I love how easy it is to toss everything together in one bowl. Plus, it makes a great side dish or even a main meal. You can never go wrong with cheese! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small rice-shaped pasta adds great texture. If you need a gluten-free option, consider quinoa or brown rice. You can use any small pasta, like ditalini or orzetti, as an alternative.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness brings brightness to the salad. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, use grape tomatoes or even chopped regular tomatoes—just make sure to remove excess juice.
Fresh Mozzarella: Mozzarella balls are creamy and add richness. If you’re dairy-free, try using dairy-free mozzarella or tofu for a similar texture.
Fresh Basil: Adds a lovely herbal note. If you don’t have basil, try parsley or arugula, but the flavor will be different. Dried herbs could work in a pinch, but fresh is always best!
Pesto Sauce: This is a key flavor component. You can use store-bought or homemade. If you have a nut allergy, look for a nut-free pesto or make one using just basil, garlic, and olive oil.
How Do I Keep My Orzo Salad From Getting Mushy?
Preventing mushy orzo is all about cooking and handling it correctly. Here are some tips:
- ***Cook it Al Dente:*** Follow the package instructions and test the orzo a minute or two before the time is up. It should still have a bit of bite!
- ***Cool It Down:*** After draining, rinse the orzo under cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents it from becoming too soft.
- ***Dress It Once Cooled:*** Adding the pesto and oil to the cooled orzo helps keep it from sticking together and absorbing too much moisture.
- ***Add Ingredients Fresh:*** Include your tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
By following these tips, your orzo salad will stay deliciously vibrant and won’t turn mushy. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Fresh Orzo Salad with Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved if large
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze or reduction
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing orzo salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So you’ll need around 45 minutes total to have a delicious salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook The Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in the orzo pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.
2. Toss with Pesto:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with the pesto sauce and olive oil. Toss everything together well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the delicious flavors.
3. Mix in Fresh Ingredients:
Gently add the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped basil leaves to the bowl. Carefully fold these ingredients into the orzo so you don’t break the mozzarella balls.
4. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle in salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You want to make sure it’s flavorful, so taste and adjust as needed!
5. Add Balsamic Glaze:
Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad for a sweet and tangy finish. You can either toss it lightly again or leave the glaze on top for a pretty presentation.
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it even tastier!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give the salad a little toss and serve it chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with a few extra basil leaves if you like, and enjoy your fresh and flavorful orzo salad!
This orzo salad is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a light lunch. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo works beautifully, you can substitute any small pasta like ditalini, farfalle, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
The orzo salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the tomatoes may release some moisture over time, so it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two for optimal freshness!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative and ensure your pesto is vegan (some store-bought versions contain cheese). This way, you still get all the delicious flavors without the dairy!
Is It Possible to Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies—cucumbers, bell peppers, or spinach would all be great additions. Just remember to chop them into small pieces so they mix well with the orzo.
