Caprese Orzo Pasta (One-Pot)Beginner
ItalianMain dishPastaVegetarian

Caprese Orzo Pasta (One-Pot)

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Caprese Orzo is a light one-pot pasta inspired by classic Caprese flavors. Orzo cooks directly with tomatoes and garlic, absorbing their aroma and juices. Fresh basil and mozzarella are added at the end so they keep their freshness and soft texture. This dish is quick to prepare and works well as a main or side.

By Karel R.
Total25 mins
Prep5 mins
Cook20 mins
Servings4
DifficultyBeginner

Preparation

5 steps · tap a step to mark it done

  1. Heat olive oil in a wide pot or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add garlic, tomatoes and salt. Cook while stirring occasionally until tomatoes soften and release juice, about 3 minutes.

  2. Add half of the basil leaves. Cook briefly until basil wilts and becomes aromatic.

  3. Add dry orzo and vegetable broth. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer. Cover pot reduce heat to low and cook about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally and scraping the bottom so pasta does not stick. Pasta needs to be soft before next step.

  4. Remove pot from heat. Season with additional salt and black pepper if needed. Stir in remaining basil and mozzarella. Residual heat warms the cheese without melting it fully.

  5. Serve immediately. Optionally drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar before serving. ENJOY!

Cook’s note

Cooking orzo directly in broth gives it more flavor than boiling separately.
Stirring occasionally prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
Mozzarella is added off heat so it stays creamy instead of stringy.
Dish is best served right after cooking.

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