This caprese orzo salad is fresh, easy to make, and packed with summer flavor. A light yet satisfying meal ready in under 20 minutes.
If you love the classic mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil, you'll enjoy this delicious caprese orzo salad. I grow basil in my garden every year, and as soon as it starts growing, I always think of a classic caprese salad. This time, I wanted to change it up a little by adding orzo pasta to make it more filling. It's a quick and easy recipe that's perfect for lunch, picnics, or a fresh family dinner. This is the kind of perfect summer salad, like caprese orzo salad, you'll find yourself making again and again.
Why You'll Love This Caprese Orzo Salad Recipe
Whether you're new to orzo or already a fan, this caprese orzo salad is one to keep in your regular rotation.
- A fun and filling twist on classic caprese salad
- Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy days
- Kid-approved and picky eater-friendly (pasta makes everything easier-at least in my house!)
- Full of fresh flavor with just a few simple ingredients, basil is the star here.
- Great for meal prep and stays fresh in the fridge for a couple of days.
Caprese Orzo Salad Ingredients
These simple ingredients come together to make the most refreshing caprese orzo salad for summer. Here's what you'll need to make this easy and delicious caprese orzo salad:
- Dry orzo: Refer to the cooking instructions on the package and cook until the pasta is al dente. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can turn mushy.
- Cherry tomatoes: Slice them in half for the perfect bite. If you have other types of fresh tomatoes on hand, feel free to use them; chop them into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Fresh mozzarella cheese: You can cut it into bite-sized pieces or use mini mozzarella balls.
- Fresh basil leaves: Tear or chop them just before adding. Only fresh basil works in this salad; dried won't give the same flavor or freshness.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: I recommend avoiding substitutions in this case.
- Balsamic vinegar: Adds a gentle tang and depth, just enough to brighten everything without overpowering.
- Salt to taste
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze for serving: Adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish. This is optional, but highly recommended!
How to Make Caprese Orzo Salad
- Bring a small pot of water to a boil and cook the orzo until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt. Pour over the salad and toss gently.
- Drizzle with a little balsamic glaze just before serving for an extra boost of flavor.
- You'll be amazed at how quickly this fresh and flavorful caprese orzo salad comes together.
Quick Tip!
Make sure your orzo is completely cooled before tossing it with the cheese and basil to keep the ingredients fresh and vibrant.
FAQ
Yes. You can make caprese orzo salad a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge.
Absolutely. Whole wheat orzo is an excellent option for extra fiber.
Yes. Grilled chicken, chickpeas, baked tofu, or even canned tuna work well in this recipe.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- As a light meal: Enjoy it on its own with sparkling water or iced tea for a refreshing midday meal.
- With grilled protein: Pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a balanced dinner. It goes exceptionally well with my Easy Turkey Bolognese if you're looking for something hearty.
- At a picnic or potluck: This caprese orzo salad holds up well and makes a colorful, crowd-pleasing side dish.
- As part of a summer dinner: Serve it alongside my Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Bites or Mediterranean-inspired mini turkey meatballs.
- Next to a soup or sandwich: Try it with my High Protein Lentil Soup or a grilled veggie panini.
STORAGE SUGGESTIONS
- This caprese orzo salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it also stores well for a couple of days.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- If making ahead, wait to add the fresh basil and balsamic glaze until just before serving to preserve the flavors' brightness and the texture's freshness.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick toss and, if needed, add a small splash of olive oil or balsamic vinegar to revive it.
MORE HEALTHY RECIPES & NUTRITION TIPS
Looking for more easy salad recipes? Try my popular, easy orzo salad recipe-easy, hearty, and delicious! Explore more recipes and nutrition tips at Nena's Wellness Corner.
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RECIPE
📖 Recipe
Caprese Orzo Salad
Video
Ingredients
- ½ cup orzo dry
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella chopped or mini balls
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves torn or chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon salt or to taste
- Balsamic glaze for serving
Instructions
- Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water.
- In a large bowl, combine orzo, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt. Pour over salad and toss gently.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.
Notes
- These are the nutrition facts for 1 serving of this recipe.
- The nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
Quick Tip
Make sure your orzo is completely cooled before tossing it with the cheese and basil to keep the ingredients fresh and vibrant.FAQ
Can I make this caprese pasta salad ahead of time? Yes. You can make caprese orzo salad a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Can I use whole wheat orzo? Absolutely. Whole wheat orzo is an excellent option for extra fiber. Can I add protein to make it a complete meal? Yes. Grilled chicken, chickpeas, baked tofu, or even canned tuna work well in this recipe.Serving Suggestions
- As a light meal: Enjoy it on its own with sparkling water or iced tea for a refreshing midday meal.
- With grilled protein: Pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a balanced dinner. It goes exceptionally well with my Easy Turkey Bolognese if you're looking for something hearty.
- At a picnic or potluck: This caprese orzo salad holds up well and makes a colorful, crowd-pleasing side dish.
- As part of a summer dinner: Serve it alongside my Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Bites or Mediterranean-inspired mini turkey meatballs.
- Next to a soup or sandwich: Try it with my High Protein Lentil Soup or a grilled veggie panini.
Storage Suggestions
This caprese orzo salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it also stores well for a couple of days.- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- If making ahead, wait to add the fresh basil and balsamic glaze until just before serving to preserve the flavors' brightness and the texture's freshness.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick toss and, if needed, add a small splash of olive oil or balsamic vinegar to revive it.
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