Caprese Orzo Salad

5 from 1 vote

This caprese orzo salad is light, refreshing, and made with simple ingredients like cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and orzo pasta. A healthy 20-minute summer salad perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Prep Time10

Cook Time10

Total Time20

Course: lunch, Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Servings:

Calories: 452kcal

Author: Dr. Nena Stefanovic

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.

Video

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.

Nutrition