Summer Caprese Orzo Salad with Balsamic Glaze -

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy vibrant, fresh flavors, and this Summer Caprese Orzo Salad with Balsamic Glaze is no exception. Combining the classic flavors of Caprese salad with hearty orzo pasta, this dish is ideal as a side for barbecues or as a light lunch. The luscious cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil make this salad a feast for the senses. And with a tangy balsamic glaze drizzled on top, you’ll find it’s both refreshing and satisfying.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is a summer staple due to its quick preparation and deliciously light taste. Here are a few reasons you’ll love it:

Quick and Easy: With only 20 minutes needed for prep and cook time, you can whip this up in no time.

Healthy Ingredients: Rich in fresh vegetables and whole grains, it’s a healthy choice for lunch or dinner.
Versatile: You can serve it as a side dish, meal prep for the week, or enjoy it as a light main course.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it ideal for lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this refreshing Summer Caprese Orzo Salad:

1 cup dry orzo pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt & pepper, to taste
Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delectable Summer Caprese Orzo Salad:

Step 1: Cook the orzo according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse it under cold water to cool.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and chopped basil.
Step 3: Drizzle the salad with olive oil and season it with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Just before serving, drizzle with balsamic glaze to add a rich flavor.

Pro Tips for Making the Summer Caprese Orzo Salad

Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will impact the overall taste of the salad. Fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes are key!
Customize It: Feel free to add other ingredients like arugula, avocado, or even grilled chicken for added protein.

Make Ahead: This salad can be made a few hours in advance. Just keep the balsamic glaze separate until serving to prevent sogginess.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to check the freshness of ingredients before eating again.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While orzo works great for this recipe, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or mini shell pasta.

2. How long can I store leftovers?

You can store the salad in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to keep the balsamic glaze separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

3. Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great additions for extra protein.

4. What can I substitute for mozzarella pearls?

If you can’t find mozzarella pearls, regular fresh mozzarella cut into small chunks works just as well.

5. Is the balsamic glaze necessary?

While the balsamic glaze adds a delicious tangy flavor, you can omit it if you prefer a milder dressing. Olive oil and a squeeze of lemon also work beautifully!

Conclusion

This Summer Caprese Orzo Salad with Balsamic Glaze is the ideal addition to your summer recipe collection. It’s not only delicious and easy to make, but it also highlights fresh seasonal ingredients that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you serve it at a picnic, a barbecue, or as a meal prep option during the week, this salad is bound to be a hit. Go ahead, gather your ingredients, and savor the summer flavors!