Orzo Pasta Salad with Tomatoes and Capers

This quick and easy chilled pasta salad is a great way to keep cool on a hot day. This delicious side dish tastes even better after the flavors have a chance to mingle, so make it a day or two in advance to take to your next picnic or casual gathering.

Tip: The capers and liquid add saltiness to this dish. Taste before adding additional salt.

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes (includes time to cook orzo)
Serves: 4

Ingredients:

2 T. extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 large (or 2 medium) tomato, seeded and chopped

1½ c. orzo pasta, cooked according to package directions

2 T. capers

1 T. caper liquid

1 T. fresh lemon juice

1 T. fresh thyme leaves
1 T. fresh parsley, chopped

Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Add olive oil and minced garlic to a skillet set over medium heat. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or just until the garlic starts to develop some colour.

Add tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or just until tomatoes become soft. Remove from heat and set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, capers and liquid, lemon juice, thyme, and parsley with the warm tomato and garlic mixture. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste, and stir to combine.

Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight. Stir and serve chilled with grilled chicken breasts or your favourite entrée of choice. Enjoy!

Click on images shown below to see details.

 

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