Caprese Orzo Salad

Caprese Salad is one of my favorite things in life. As far as I’m concerned, it’s an acceptable lunch all summer long, no questions asked. When I saw Gaby’s refresh of this summertime classic, part Caprese Salad, part pasta salad I was more excited than I should have been. It was immediately added to the dinner rotation the following week and now I’m fairly certain I can justify having Caprese Salad for lunch and Caprese Orzo Salad for dinner. No problems here! This recipe makes a decent sized batch to make you the backyard BBQ hero or to serve as both dinner fixings and lunch leftovers. I topped ours with a piece of blackened salmon to add a bit of protein and it was a smash success. Enjoy!

Caprese Orzo Salad
Serves 4
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Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
10 min
Total Time
20 min
Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
10 min
Total Time
20 min
For the Balsamic Vinaigrette
  1. 4 tablespoons olive oil (I use the olive oil that the mozzarella balls are packed in - so much extra flavor!)
  2. 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  3. 3 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
  4. Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
For the Caprese Orzo Salad
  1. 6-8 ounces orzo pasta
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 1 pint cherry tomatoes
  4. 1 pint heirloom cherry tomatoes
  5. 10 ounces small mozzarella balls (found in the olive bar at Fred Meyer for Olympia peeps!)
  6. Fresh basil leaves
  7. Kosher salt and pepper
Instructions
  1. Cook the orzo according to package directions. While the orzo cooks, combine all the ingredients for the balsamic vinaigrette in a small bowl or cup and whisk until combined, then set aside. Drain the orzo and let it cool slightly, then transfer into a large bowl. Toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil so the orzo doesn't stick together.
  2. Wash and halve the tomatoes, then add them to the cooked orzo. Add the fresh mozzarella and add them to the bowl. Tear the basil leaves and add them to the bowl as well. Toss with balsamic vinaigrette and season to taste with salt and pepper.
Adapted from What's Gaby Cooking
Mr & Mrs Miller https://mrandmrsmiller.com/
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