Description
A vibrant Italian-inspired pasta salad with orzo, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and bright pesto. Quick to prepare and loaded with fresh flavors, this dish is perfect for casual meals or gatherings. Tossed with olive oil and seasonings, it balances creaminess and herbaceous notes for a satisfying bite.
Ingredients
2 cups orzo pasta
1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
4 tablespoons pesto
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil
Cook orzo for 8-10 minutes until al dente
Drain orzo and rinse with cold water to stop cooking
In a large bowl, toss orzo with olive oil and salt
Add cherry tomatoes and mozzarella pearls, gently mix
Fold in pesto until ingredients are well coated
Chill for 30 minutes before serving
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days
For a vegan version, substitute mozzarella with tofu cream cheese and use a vegan pesto
Add cucumber or bell peppers for extra freshness
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cold
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg