This Fresh Orzo Salad with Mozzarella is a perfect dish for sunny days! It features tender orzo pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh herbs, all tossed together.
This salad is great for picnics or a light lunch. I love how easy it is—just cook the orzo, mix everything, and enjoy. Plus, it pairs well with anything! 🍅🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta that works wonderfully in salads. If you don’t have orzo, try using other small pasta shapes like quinoa, couscous, or ditalini for a similar texture.
Fresh Mozzarella: I recommend using bocconcini or ciliegine because they’re bite-sized and balance perfectly with the salad. If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, try using feta for a tangy flavor or even cubed block mozzarella for a firmer texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy cherry tomatoes add color and flavor. If they’re out of season, you could use grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes. Roasted tomatoes can also lend a nice depth of flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil is fantastic for this salad, but if you’re out, you can substitute with arugula or even a bit of fresh spinach. Dried basil works in a pinch; just use about a third of the amount.
How Do I Make Sure My Orzo is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking orzo properly is key for a great salad. The goal is to cook it al dente, which means it should be firm yet tender. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by boiling water or vegetable broth. This adds flavor right from the start.
- Add the orzo and stir for even cooking. Check the package for specific cooking times, typically around 8-10 minutes.
- Once done, drain the orzo but remember to rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents it from getting mushy.
- Let it drain completely so your salad doesn’t become soggy.
These steps will help you get that perfect texture for your orzo salad!
How to Make Fresh Orzo Salad With Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh orzo salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an optional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge for the best flavor. In total, you can have this delicious salad ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Begin by bringing 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil in a medium pot. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, which is usually about 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t overcook!
2. Chill the Orzo:
When the orzo is cooked, drain it in a colander, and then quickly rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This step will help stop the cooking process and keep the orzo from getting mushy. Allow it to drain completely before moving on to the next step.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella. Toss in the chopped basil, and you’re almost there! This is the foundation of your salad—very colorful and appealing!
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar (if using) over your salad. Now it’s time to season with salt and pepper to your liking. Don’t be shy—you want it to taste delicious!
5. Toss and Garnish:
Gently toss everything together to ensure the mozzarella and tomatoes are evenly distributed throughout the orzo. You’re looking for a lovely blend of flavors and colors! For the finishing touch, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves.
6. Serve or Chill:
This salad is great served right away, but for even better flavor, consider refrigerating it for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your fresh orzo salad while it’s vibrant and delicious!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great substitute and will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the salad. Just be sure to check the cooking time on the package, as it may differ slightly from regular orzo.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, feel free to use diced mozzarella cheese or even feta cheese for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that changing the cheese might alter the creaminess of the salad, but it will still taste delicious!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover orzo salad can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just remember that the texture may change slightly as it sits, so if it seems dry, add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! This salad is very versatile. Feel free to add diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even avocados for extra crunch and flavor. Just make sure to chop them into similar sizes for even distribution in the salad.
