Orzo Salad with Tomatoes, Basil & Balsamic
 
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
Orzo (rice-shaped pasta) works nicely with tomato, mozzarella and basil, all in a tasty balsamic dressing.
Author:
Recipe type: Pasta Salad
Cuisine: Pasta
Serves: 6
Ingredients
Salad:
  • 2 c. uncooked Orzo (about 4 cups cooked)
  • 1 pt. cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 8 oz. bocconcini (small mozzarella balls), halved
  • ½ c. chiffonade of fresh basil (i.e., sliced thinly)
  • ¼ c. toasted pine nuts (optional)
Balsamic Dressing:
  • ¼ c. balsamic vinegar
  • 1-2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp. lemon juice
  • ½ tsp. kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ c. olive oil (or a mix of olive & vegetable)
Instructions
  1. Follow package directions to cook orzo.
  2. While orzo cooks, prep tomatoes, mozzarella, basil and pine nuts. Set aside.
  3. Combine dressing ingredients (except olive oil) in small bowl; slowly whisk in oil to emulsify/thicken. OR, toss all ingredients into a lidded jar and shake vigorously. Set aside until ready to use.
  4. When orzo is cooked through (but not mushy), pour into a colander and lightly rinse with water. Cool about 10 minutes.
  5. When cool, transfer orzo to a large mixing bowl. Add a few tablespoons of dressing, along with tomatoes & mozzarella, and mix. Add a tablespoon at a time of the dressing, to taste (*). Allow to sit 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors. Mix, taste for seasoning and adjust according to preference. Add basil and mix well.
  6. If using pine nuts, add just before serving.
  7. (*) you'll likely have leftover dressing - simply refrigerate what you don't use.
Recipe by My Delicious Blog at https://www.mydeliciousblog.com/orzo-salad-with-tomatoes-basil-balsamic/