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A bowl of fresh Orzo Pesto Salad with tomatoes and mozzarella

Orzo Pesto Salad: The Best 15-Minute Easy Summer Recipe

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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 6 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 14 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American, Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A fresh and vibrant orzo pesto salad made with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all tossed in a zesty pesto dressing.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dried orzo
  • 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes, cut into fourths
  • 3/4 cup mozzarella balls, cut into fourths
  • 1/3 cup fresh basil, chiffonade cut
  • 1/2 cup pesto
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

4. Pour the pesto mixture over the salad and toss until evenly coated.

5. Serve immediately or chill before serving for enhanced flavor.


Notes

For best flavor, use fresh homemade pesto if available.

Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

You can add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 209
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 212mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 6mg