Toasted Orzo Pasta Salad with Greens, Burrata & Garlic Bread Crumbs
This elegant salad combines the nutty depth of toasted orzo pasta with tender greens, creamy burrata, and golden garlic bread crumbs for crunch. It’s hearty yet light — perfect as a side dish, summer lunch, or a sophisticated centerpiece for a Mediterranean-inspired spread.
⏱ Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the salad:
1 ½ cups dry orzo pasta
2 tbsp olive oil (for toasting orzo)
2 cups baby arugula (or spinach, or mixed greens)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cucumber, diced
8 oz (225 g) burrata cheese (2 medium balls or 1 large ball)
2 tbsp fresh basil, torn
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the garlic bread crumbs:
1 cup rustic bread, torn into small crumbs (or panko)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the dressing:
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp honey (optional, to balance acidity)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Toast & cook orzo
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add orzo and toast, stirring, until golden and nutty (about 3 minutes).
Add salted water and cook orzo until al dente (8–10 minutes). Drain, toss lightly with olive oil, and cool slightly.
2. Make garlic bread crumbs
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic, sauté for 30 seconds.
Add breadcrumbs, season with salt & pepper, and cook until golden and crisp (4–5 minutes). Set aside.
3. Mix dressing
Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble salad
In a large bowl, toss orzo with arugula, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and fresh herbs.
Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
5. Finish with burrata & crumbs
Transfer salad to a serving platter.
Place burrata in the center (tear open gently to release creamy interior).
Sprinkle garlic bread crumbs generously over top.
Garnish with extra basil leaves.
Notes & Tips
Make ahead: Orzo and bread crumbs can be prepped a day in advance; assemble just before serving.
Extra flavor: Add grilled zucchini, roasted peppers, or marinated artichokes.
Vegan option: Swap burrata for vegan mozzarella or avocado slices.
Crunch upgrade: Use toasted pine nuts or pistachios along with bread crumbs.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can this be served warm or cold?
A: Both! It’s delicious slightly warm (with melty burrata) or chilled as a refreshing pasta salad.
Q: Can I use mozzarella instead of burrata?
A: Yes — fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) work well, though burrata gives extra creaminess.
Q: How do I stop orzo from clumping?
A: Toss with a drizzle of olive oil after cooking and spread on a sheet pan to cool.
Nutrition information
Calories: 450
Protein: 16g
Fat: 22g
Carbs: 48g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 5g