Creamy Caprese Orzo

If you're looking for a dish that encapsulates the essence of summer while being comforting and satisfying, look no further than Creamy Caprese Orzo. This delightful pasta dish takes the classic Caprese salad—a beloved Italian favorite featuring fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil—and infuses it with a creamy twist that elevates the traditional flavors to new heights. The allure of this dish lies not only in its vibrant colors but also in its rich texture and harmonious blend of flavors, making it the perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner, a potluck gathering, or even a special occasion.

Discover the deliciousness of Creamy Caprese Orzo, a delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad. This pasta dish combines orzo with fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, creating a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it’s easy to make and impressive enough to serve guests. Enjoy a taste of summer in every bite with this comforting dish that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups vegetable broth

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/2 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Sauté the Garlic: While the orzo is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

Combine Ingredients: Once the orzo is cooked, drain any excess broth if necessary (leave a little liquid for creaminess), then add it to the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Stir in the heavy cream, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls, mixing everything together gently.

Add Fresh Basil: Stir in the chopped basil leaves and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mozzarella to soften slightly.

Serve: Transfer the creamy caprese orzo to serving dishes. Top with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and additional basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired dish!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings