Tomato and Basil Orzo Salad
Bright, fresh, and undeniably satisfying, this Tomato and Basil Orzo Salad is the ultimate dish for warm-weather dining or anytime you're craving Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Tender orzo pasta is tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic fresh basil, and a zesty homemade dressing of extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and garlic. It’s a quick recipe that comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or summer picnics. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an optional touch of richness, or serve as is for a fresh and vibrant vegetarian side dish. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, this pasta salad delights with its simplicity and balance of flavors, satisfying as both a light main or colorful accompaniment.
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Ingredients
- 1.5 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 0.5 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1.5 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the orzo and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
Step 2
While the orzo is cooling, halve the cherry tomatoes and roughly chop the fresh basil leaves. Mince the garlic clove.
Step 3
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
Step 4
Add the cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil to the mixing bowl. Toss gently to combine and coat the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
Step 5
If desired, sprinkle the salad with shredded Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 6
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 7
Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This salad can be served cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (739.8g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1733.7 |
| Total Fat 63.0g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 15.7g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g | |
| Cholesterol 53.4mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2032.5mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 240.3g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 20.2g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 13.2g | |
| Protein 62.0g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 12.8IU | 0% |
| Calcium 829.8mg | 0% |
| Iron 12.7mg | 0% |
| Potassium 829.1mg | 0% |
Source of Calories