Description
Bright, fresh, and delightfully satisfying, the Watermelon Mozzarella Orzo Salad combines juicy watermelon cubes, creamy shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), and tender orzo pasta. Infused with zesty herbs and a simple vinaigrette, this salad is perfect as a standalone meal or a remarkable side dish for any summer gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups watermelon cubes (seedless)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal)
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- Optional: 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the orzo and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta for the salad.
- Prepare the Fresh Ingredients: While the orzo cools, cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes, peel and chop the cucumber, shred the mozzarella cheese (vegetal), and finely chop the mint leaves. If using, thinly slice the red onion.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly emulsified to brighten and unify the flavors.
- Toss the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, watermelon cubes, shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), chopped cucumber, mint, and red onion if using. Pour the dressing over and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly without breaking the watermelon pieces.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and enhance the refreshing taste.
Notes
- Use cold watermelon and cucumber before mixing to maximize refreshment.
- Cook orzo carefully to keep it firm and prevent mushiness.
- Add dressing just before serving if preparing in advance to avoid sogginess.
- Choose seedless watermelon for easier preparation and eating.
- Finely mince herbs to distribute flavor evenly throughout the salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: watermelon salad, orzo salad, summer salad, mozzarella salad, vegetarian, refreshing salad, light meal