One-Pot Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes, Basil, and Mozzarella

Ingredients

- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole fresh mozzarella pearls
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn

Instructions

1. Heat the Olive Oil:
In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

3. Cook the Tomatoes:
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pot, seasoning with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.

4. Add the Orzo:
Stir in 1 1/2 cups of orzo pasta to the pot, ensuring it is well coated with the oil and tomato juices.

5. Simmer in Broth:
Pour in 3 cups of vegetable broth. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

6. Incorporate the Mozzarella:
Gently stir in 1 cup of mozzarella pearls until they begin to melt slightly, creating a creamy consistency.

7. Season and Dress:
Season with 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar.

8. Finish with Basil:
Remove the pot from heat and fold in 1/4 cup of roughly torn fresh basil leaves.

9. Serve:
Serve immediately, ensuring each plate has an equal amount of orzo, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

Total Time

PT35M
35 minutes

Type of Dish

Dinner

Keywords

Orzo recipe, cherry tomato pasta, one-pot meal, quick dinner, mozzarella, basil, vegetarian dinner, easy pasta dish, stove top recipe, Italian-inspired

Recipe Yield

Feeds 4 adults

Calories

Total: 1,600 calories

#OnePotMeal #QuickDinner #ItalianInspired #VegetarianRecipe #EasyPastaDish