Easy & Fresh Mozzarella Pasta Salad is light, flavorful, and refreshing. This simply dressed salad is a summertime favorite.
This pasta salad stands out because it’s lighter, full of vegetables, and easy to make. It’s similar in spirit to other favorite pasta salads that pair bright, fresh ingredients with a simple dressing. With minimal prep and fresh flavors, it’s a great option for weeknight meals, potlucks, or barbecues.
Light + Delicious
When warm weather arrives I start craving salads, and this one is a go-to. The classic Caprese combination—fresh mozzarella pearls, basil, and ripe cherry tomatoes—becomes even better when mixed with orzo pasta and a light olive oil dressing.
With just a few high-quality ingredients and a simple seasoning of garlic salt and olive oil, this mozzarella pasta salad is both satisfying and refreshing. It comes together quickly, making it a reliable dish to bring to gatherings or to serve alongside grilled protein.
Making pasta salad with fresh mozzarella
This recipe is straightforward and quick:
PASTA. Cook the orzo according to package directions. Drain and allow it to cool before tossing with the other ingredients.
COMBINE. In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella pearls or cubed mozzarella.
DRESS + SERVE. Season with garlic salt (or to taste), add olive oil, and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Add a bit of fresh basil on top just before serving for a bright finish.
Variations
The base Caprese-style ingredients are perfect as-is, but feel free to customize the salad to your taste. Some tasty add-ins include:
- Baby spinach, sliced olives, cubed avocado, or thinly sliced red onion
- Grilled chicken or sliced salami for extra protein
- A drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette or a touch of balsamic glaze
- Freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch more salt if desired
- A spoonful of basil pesto stirred in for extra herb flavor
Recipe Tips
Serving size. The ingredient amounts work as a hearty single serving or a lighter meal for two. For gatherings, double or triple the recipe to make enough as a side dish for a picnic or BBQ.
This pasta salad pairs well with many mains. Serve it alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, sandwiches, or wraps for a complete meal. It’s especially good with simply seasoned grilled steak or chicken.
Storage Info
Make ahead. You can prepare this mozzarella and orzo salad in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 2–3 days; if it seems a bit dry after refrigeration, stir in a little extra olive oil to refresh the texture and flavor.
Recipe FAQ
Orzo is a form of pasta shaped like rice and should be cooked the same way you cook other pastas. Boil in salted water according to the package instructions, drain, rinse if desired, and let cool before using in the salad.
Fresh mozzarella pearls are ideal, but you can cube a block of fresh mozzarella or chop mozzarella sticks if pearls aren’t available. Each option still delivers the creamy, mild cheese flavor this salad needs.
For more tasty pasta salads, try
- Greek Orzo Salad
- Chicken Pasta Salad
- Chinese Pasta Salad
- Taco Pasta Salad
- Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Mozzarella Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta uncooked
- 6 oz fresh mozzarella cheese balls
- 1/2 cup cherry/grape tomatoes halved
- garlic salt (with parsley flakes) to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup basil fresh, chopped
Instructions
-
Cook pasta according to the directions on the box. Drain and let cool.
-
Add the pasta, tomatoes, basil, and cheese to a large bowl and mix gently.
-
Season with garlic salt, add olive oil, and toss until evenly coated.
-
Right before serving, add a few extra fresh basil leaves on top and enjoy.
Nutrition
Calories: 1270kcal,
Carbohydrates: 116g,
Protein: 61g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
Recipe adapted from allrecipes.