A delicious combination of orzo and mozzarella, this Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress your guests.
With its bright colors and fresh ingredients, this salad adds a refreshing touch to any picnic, barbecue or buffet. The orzo absorbs the Mediterranean-inspired dressing perfectly, resulting in a dish that is both light and filling.
Ingredients
350g orzo or other small pasta shape
20g pack of basil
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
25 g Parmesan (or vegetarian alternative), finely grated, plus more for serving if desired
1 garlic clove, very coarsely chopped
50 g roasted pine nuts
290g pack of bocconcini (baby mozzarella balls)
100g semi-dried tomatoes, very coarsely chopped
50g bag of wild rocket
Preparation steps
Cook the orzo until tender, 8 minutes, then drain and cool under cold water.
Drain again and then place in a large bowl.
In the meantime, chop the basil including the stems and place in a food processor.
Add oil, parmesan, garlic and half of the pine nuts to the food processor.
Blend the ingredients in the food processor until you have a thick, pesto-like dressing.
Stir the dressing through the orzo and then season.
Continue stirring until the dressing coats all the grains.
Add bocconcini, tomatoes and a handful of arugula to the orzo mixture.
Sprinkle the remaining pine nuts on top and a little more Parmesan if desired.
Top with additional arugula and serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
kcal
fat
saturates
carbohydrates
Sugar
fiber
protein
Salt
742
40g
13g
71g
5g
4g
29g
1.25g
.
Orzo and mozzarella salad
Orzo and mozzarella salad
Equipment and tools
To prepare this salad you will need the following equipment and tools:
A pot for cooking the orzo or other small pasta shape
A sharp knife
A grater
A cutting board
A blender or food processor (optional)
A frying pan or skillet for toasting the pine nuts
Allergen information
This Orzo Mozzarella Salad contains the following allergens:
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Please note that the texture and taste may change slightly after cooling.
Before serving the leftovers, stir the salad well and season if necessary.
Ingredients
For this Orzo Mozzarella Salad you will need the following ingredients:
350g orzo or other small pasta shape
20g pack of basil
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
25 g Parmesan (or vegetarian alternative), finely grated, plus more for serving if desired
1 garlic clove, very coarsely chopped
50 g roasted pine nuts
290g pack of bocconcini (baby mozzarella balls)
100g semi-dried tomatoes, very coarsely chopped
50g bag of wild rocket
instructions
Cook the orzo or other small pasta shape according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
Roughly tear the basil leaves and set some aside for garnish.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, torn basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, grated Parmesan, and minced garlic. Mix well.
Add the toasted pine nuts, bocconcini, semi-dried tomatoes and wild rocket to the bowl. Stir gently to combine.
Garnish the salad with the reserved basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan if desired.
Serve and enjoy!
Health Benefits of Orzo and Mozzarella Salad
Orzo Mozzarella Salad is not only a delicious dish that tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a number of health benefits. Packed with nutritious ingredients, this salad is a fantastic option for anyone looking to boost their overall well-being. Let’s take a closer look at some of the health benefits it offers:
1. Nutrient-rich orzo
The main ingredient in this salad is orzo, a type of pasta that resembles large grains of rice. Orzo is a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber and protein. These nutrients ensure a consistent release of energy, ensure a feeling of satiety and promote healthy digestion.
2. Basil – an aromatic herb with health benefits
Adding fresh basil not only improves the taste but also brings numerous health benefits to the salad. Basil is rich in vitamins A, K and C as well as minerals such as calcium and iron. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve digestion.
Using extra virgin olive oil in this salad provides a dose of heart-healthy fats. Rich in monounsaturated fats, olive oil can help reduce inflammation, lower bad cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of heart disease when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
4. Parmesan – a good source of calcium
The finely grated Parmesan cheese gives the salad a spicy, hearty note and at the same time provides a good amount of calcium. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth and also plays a role in muscle function and nerve transmission.
5. Garlic – a natural immune booster
The garlic clove used in this recipe not only adds a pungent flavor but also has several health benefits. Garlic contains compounds that have been shown to boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels.
6. Protein-rich mozzarella
Bocconcini or baby mozzarella balls are an excellent source of protein. Protein is essential for various body functions, including muscle growth and repair, hormone production, and the formation of enzymes and antibodies. Adding mozzarella to your salad can help you meet your daily protein needs.
7. Semi-dried tomatoes – Packed with antioxidants
The addition of semi-dried tomatoes gives the salad a special flavor and an abundance of antioxidants. Antioxidants protect your cells from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic disease.
8. Nutrient-rich wild rocket
Finally, the addition of wild arugula, also known as arugula, gives the salad a peppery flavor and a range of nutrients. This leafy green vegetable is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folic acid, calcium, and magnesium.
Incorporating orzo and mozzarella salad into your diet can be a great way to enjoy a delicious meal while reaping the numerous health benefits of its nutritious ingredients.
At Cafe Gray Deluxe, the Cooking Team's dedication to culinary excellence is at the heart of every recipe we share. With a shared commitment to quality and innovation, we invite you to savor the creations of this remarkable team, one recipe at a time.
