Caprese Orzo Pesto Salad Recipe – A Fresh & Flavorful Pasta Salad for Any Occasion
If you’re searching for a refreshing, simple, and crowd-pleasing dish, this Caprese Orzo Pesto Salad is exactly what you need. Packed with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil pesto, and tender orzo pasta, this salad is a vibrant twist on the classic Caprese.
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, preparing a quick lunch, or planning a make-ahead side dish, this recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.
🛒 Ingredients for Caprese Orzo Pesto Salad
To make this easy pasta salad, you’ll need:
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1 cup orzo pasta
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls (or chopped mozzarella)
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1/4 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
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1–2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
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Optional: 1 tbsp balsamic glaze for drizzling
👩🍳 How to Make Caprese Orzo Pesto Salad (Step-by-Step)
1. Cook the Orzo
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package directions (usually 8–10 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, halved tomatoes, and mozzarella.
3. Add Pesto and Olive Oil
Stir in the basil pesto and olive oil until everything is evenly coated. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for later.
🌿 Why You’ll Love This Orzo Caprese Salad
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✅ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes
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✅ Fresh Ingredients: Full of garden-fresh flavor
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✅ Customizable: Add chicken, arugula, or pine nuts for variety
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✅ Great for Meal Prep: Stays delicious for up to 3 days in the fridge
💡 Tips & Variations
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Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost.
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Vegan-Friendly: Use vegan mozzarella and dairy-free pesto.
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More Greens: Mix in arugula or baby spinach for extra nutrients.
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Make Ahead: Prepare up to a day in advance—just toss again before serving.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is orzo pasta or rice?
Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta made from wheat. It’s commonly used in soups, salads, and side dishes.
Can you serve Caprese Orzo Salad cold?
Yes! This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics and packed lunches.
What pesto works best in this salad?
Classic basil pesto is traditional, but you can also use sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto for a flavorful twist.
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📝 Conclusion
This Caprese Orzo Pesto Salad recipe brings together the best of summer—fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and tender pasta—in one beautiful bowl. It’s quick to make, easy to adapt, and bursting with Italian flavor.
Perfect for BBQs, meal prep, or a light dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your warm-weather recipe rotation.
Meta Description (SEO):
Make this quick and fresh Caprese Orzo Pesto Salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil pesto, and orzo pasta. A perfect summer side dish or vegetarian meal prep option.