This hearty Italian salad features orzo, two types of tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil. It’s delicious as a meal and ideal to keep on hand for an easy lunch. You’ll definitely want to try this flavorful Italian orzo salad!
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Why this Recipe Works
This tasty Italian salad with tomatoes and mozzarella is a real all-rounder. I love eating it fresh, but it’s great for storing and taking with you for lunch.
It’s also the perfect salad to prepare in advance. In fact, it tastes even better the next day because the flavors have had time to blend. So, if you have any leftovers, be sure to save them!
Orzo Salad Ingredients
This flavorful Italian orzo salad is packed with fresh, delicious ingredients. In addition to fresh cherry tomatoes, I use sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella. I also add fresh basil and pesto for an extra burst of flavor. Below you will find a summary of all the ingredients:
- Orzo pasta: a rice shaped pasta mostly used in Greece and Italy. It has a nice texture and works wonderfully in salads an creamy pasta dishes such as this creamy tomato orzo recipe
- Cherry tomatoes and sundried tomatoes: add a ton of flavor and freshness
- Green pesto: and fresh basil mixed into the dressing for the ultimate Italian flavor combination, either store-bought or homemade
- Cheese: I use mini mozzarella balls and Parmesan cheese in this salad, the perfect pairing!
Easy Italian Orzo Salad Recipe
Does this combination of ingredients sound familiar? You’re right! This recipe is inspired by the classic caprese salad but has more substance and is therefore perfect for an evening meal served with a tasty sandwich or focaccia.
How to Make an Italian Orzo Salad
Making this delicious salad is really very easy, another reason to make this recipe! You start by cooking the orzo and preparing all the other ingredients. Once everything is ready, just mix and serve! What did I say, easy right? I like to serve it as a quick lunch or light dinner. It also works well as a side dish and keeps really well in the fridge for a couple of days. Take your leftovers to work or even to a picknick!
FAQ
Can I add some meat to the salad?
Yes, although this recipe is a vegetarian one you can definitely add meat! I would recommend some cut-up crispy bacon or pancetta or even salami.
I can’t find mini mozzarella, can I use regular balls?
Absolutely, I like to cut or tear it into bite sized pieces before mixing in.
Can I use burrata instead of mozzarella?
Oh yes, baby! Burrata would be an amazing addition.
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Ingredients
- 175 gram whole wheat orzo
- 150 gram cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 150 gram mini mozzarella balls (halved)
- 30 gram sun-dried tomatoes (without oil, finely chopped)
- 1-2 tbsp green pesto
- A handful of fresh basil
- Parmesan cheese
- Extra virgin olive oil,pepper, and salt
Equipment
- Small pan
- Strainer
- Salad bowl
INSTRUCTIONS (how to make this recipe):
- Cook the orzo according to the package instructions and drain if necessary.
- Allow it to cool slightly, then place it in a large bowl. Add the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Season with green pesto, fresh basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grate some Parmesan cheese and add as much as you like. I added about two tablespoons.
- Toss the salad well and serve it lukewarm or cold. Bon appétit!
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