This Easy Fresh Orzo Salad is bursting with colorful veggies and creamy mozzarella. It’s bright, tasty, and perfect for a picnic or a quick lunch at home!
I love how simple it is to make—just cook the orzo, chop some veggies, and mix everything together. It feels like a mini party in a bowl! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta is perfect for salads. If you’re gluten-free, you can use quinoa or gluten-free pasta. I love macaroni as a fun alternative too!
Cherry Tomatoes: Freshness is key! Use any small tomatoes you have. Grape tomatoes work well too. Can’t find fresh? Canned tomatoes can be used for a different flavor, but they will change the salad’s texture.
Fresh Mozzarella: Bocconcini is my favorite for this dish. If you’re going dairy-free, try using avocado chunks or marinated tofu for a creamy texture.
Basil: Basil adds a lovely flavor. If it’s not available, substitute with parsley or even spinach. Dried basil is okay in a pinch, though fresh is always best!
Pesto Sauce: You can use store-bought or homemade pesto. If you’re nut-free, make your pesto with spinach, garlic, and olive oil—yum!
How Do I Achieve the Perfectly Coated Orzo?
Coating the orzo properly is crucial for flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- After cooking and cooling, mix the orzo with the pesto sauce immediately. This helps the sauce stick better!
- Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is covered. Using a spatula can help with this.
- Let the orzo sit for about 10-15 minutes after mixing. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Easy Fresh Orzo Salad With Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved if large
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- ¼ cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious orzo salad will take approximately 15 minutes to prepare. Cooking the orzo takes about 7-9 minutes, and the rest is just mixing and chopping. It’s a quick and light dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add the orzo pasta. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 7-9 minutes, until it’s al dente (not too soft!).
2. Cool the Orzo:
Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander. Rinse it under cold water for a minute to stop the cooking process. This helps cool it down quickly too! Make sure to drain it well after rinsing.
3. Mix with Pesto:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with the pesto sauce. Stir it up gently to coat each piece of orzo evenly. This gives it a yummy flavor!
4. Add the Veggies:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped basil to the orzo. Toss everything together gently to mix well but without squishing the mozzarella.
5. Season the Salad:
Drizzle the olive oil over your salad. Then sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss everything again lightly to combine.
6. Prepare to Serve:
Transfer your colorful salad to a serving bowl. You can garnish with some extra fresh basil leaves on top for a nice touch.
7. Final Touch:
Just before serving, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top for that extra zing of flavor. It’s like the cherry on top!
8. Enjoy!
This refreshing orzo salad can be served chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect for dinner, lunch, or even a picnic. Dig in and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Easy Fresh Orzo Salad With Mozzarella
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo adds a nutty flavor and extra nutrients. Just remember that it may have a slightly different cooking time, so check the package instructions for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftover Orzo Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can still be tasty the next day! Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to include any of your favorite veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or spinach. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and eating!
What If I Don’t Have Pesto?
No problem! You can substitute pesto with a simple dressing made of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a bit of grated Parmesan cheese. This will still give your salad a nice flavor!
