Caprese orzo pasta salad is the perfect combination of summer flavors. I love having this as a light meal or side dish all the time during patio season!

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Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil come together in this caprese orzo salad. This combination makes the best light summer meal or side dish.

What is Caprese?

Caprese is an Italian salad that is traditionally served with sliced fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, and is seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil. The traditional way to serve this is arranged flat on a plate to display the colors of the Italian flag.

This recipe gives a fun twist to the traditional Caprese salad, since it adds orzo pasta. With the pasta added to this salad, it is filling enough to be a whole meal on its own. You can also serve it alongside some chicken or fish for a larger meal.

What Makes This Recipe So Good?

You will love this fun twist on a classic Caprese salad for its great flavor using fresh and simple ingredients. The tomatoes make this salad so flavorful and bright. Little mozzarella balls add some creaminess to the salad, and the balsamic dressing adds a sweet kick to the dish.

You will also love this recipe because it is very easy to put together and can be made ahead of time to serve when entertaining. Make ahead dishes for parties are a life saver and make the whole process way less stressful. I always try to prepare everything I possibly can ahead of time to reduce the amount of work on the day of an event.

What Do I Need to Make Caprese Orzo Salad?

While the full ingredient list is available in the recipe card below, here are some tips on what you will need to make the best fresh Caprese salad with orzo pasta.

For the Dressing:

• Balsamic vinegar
• Olive oil
• Dijon mustard
• Honey
• Garlic cloves

For the Salad:

• Orzo pasta
• Bocconcini pearls
• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh basil leaves

How Do I Cook Orzo Pasta?

Orzo pasta is very easy to cook, it is just like any other pasta! Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add lots of salt. Pour into the water and stir occasionally. Boil the pasta in the water for about 5 to 7 minutes until al dente (check the package directions for your orzo, as the exact amount of time may differ slightly). Drain the orzo using a strainer or fine colander and then add to your dish. It's that easy!

How to Make Caprese Orzo Pasta

While the full recipe instructions are available below, here are some tips on how to make this easy orzo pasta salad!

• Cook your orzo pasta as outlined above. While the orzo is cooking, we'll make our dressing. In a large bowl, whisk together the balsamic, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic until well combined. Once your orzo is cooked, drain it and add to the dressing and toss until evenly coated. Set aside and let it cool to room temperature.
• While you wait for the orzo to cool, you will prep your other ingredients. Quarter your tomatoes, slice your fresh basil, and drain and rinse the mozzarella balls under cold water using a strainer or fine colander.
• Once your orzo has cooled completely, toss your tomatoes, cheese, and basil into the salad. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Additions or Substitutions

While I think this recipe is perfect as it is, here are some suggestions on ways you can alter or add ingredients!

• If you do not have orzo handy, you could use any kind of smaller pasta share for this recipe. Ditalini, work really well. you could also use farfalle, fusilli, penne, orecchiette or small shells if that is what you have on hand.
• To keep this meal vegetarian and to add some protein to make it more filling, you could add some chickpeas or white kidney beans. You could also add some red onion for a little bite.
• You can use cherry tomatoes interchangeably with grape tomatoes. Either one works well in this recipe!
• Use salt and cracked black pepper to taste. You could also add pine nuts for some crunch, and even a little bit of grated parmesan cheese and lemon juice to brighten it up.

Is Orzo Pasta or Rice?

Although orzo is shaped like rice, it is actually a pasta. It is made from whole grain, semolina, or white flour. It's name is actually Italian for "barley" because of how similar its shape is to the grain.

How do You Know When Orzo is Done?

As with other pastas, you will know it is done when it has a firm and chewy texture. You want to cook the orzo until it is just al dente. Overcooked orzo becomes mushy, so make sure to check it regularly and drain it from the water once it is just cooked.

How Long Will Orzo Salad Keep?

This salad is great, because you can prepare it ahead and serve it later! If you are serving this for guests, I would recommend preparing it either the night before to serve the next day, or in the morning before serving. Simply remove it from the fridge a few minutes in advance of serving it to let it come to room temperature before it is time to eat.

If you are making this recipe to meal prep, you can refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 to 5 days.

Are Tomatoes Good For You?

Of course! Tomatoes are full of healthy vitamins and antioxidants and are linked with many disease fighting compounds. They are particularly high in lycopene, which is known to help prevent cancer, improved heart health. Tomatoes are definitely a healthy addition to your diet, so enjoy them in this salad!

More Salad Recipes

If you loved this easy Caprese pasta salad, check out some more easy salads at the quick links below!

• Taco Salad with Catalina Dressing
• Salmon and Chipotle Roasted Butternut Squash Salad
• Healthy Macro Friendly Chicken Salad
• Classic Shrimp Louie Salad
• Greek Style Tuna Salad