Orzo Salad With Corn Tomatoes And Basil
During the warm summer months, nobody wants to spend hours in the kitchen cooking elaborate meals. Instead, people tend to gravitate towards light and refreshing dishes that can be prepared quickly and easily. This is where orzo salad with corn, tomatoes, and basil comes in. This salad is the perfect combination of fresh summer flavors that don't require much preparation or cooking time. Plus, it can easily be customized to fit your personal taste preferences. Here's everything you need to know to make the perfect orzo salad:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb orzo pasta
- 2 ears of corn, shucked and kernels removed
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to brown slightly. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cooked corn, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to combine.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
This recipe makes a big batch of salad, which is perfect for feeding a crowd at a summer BBQ or picnic. Plus, it's easily customizable to fit your personal taste preferences. Here are some variations to try:
Variations:
- Swap out the cherry tomatoes for diced sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense tomato flavor.
- Use crumbled feta cheese or shaved parmesan instead of the mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add diced avocado for a creamy texture and extra nutrition.
- Drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top for a sweet and tangy finish.
Overall, orzo salad with corn, tomatoes, and basil is the perfect summer side dish for any meal. It's easy to make, refreshing, and bursting with fresh flavors. Give it a try at your next summer gathering and watch it become a crowd favorite!