What are your favorite ways to cool off on a hot summer day? I have always felt that a chilled pasta salad is a great way to keep cool on a hot day–and it’s always a hit with my family!

This delicious, vegan Orzo Pasta Salad with Capers and Tomatoes 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 get-together.

Each mouthful delights with the delectable flavors of garlic, capers, lemon, tomatoes, thyme and parsley blended with creamy orzo.

Chilled Orzo Pasta Salad with Capers and Tomatoes

Ingredients

2 T. olive oil

3 cloves garlic, peeled and finely minced

1 large or 2 medium tomatoes, washed and chopped, seeds and excess liquid discarded

1 ½ c. dried orzo, cooked according to package directions and cooled

2 T. capers

1 T. caper liquid

1 T. fresh lemon juice

1 T. fresh thyme, stems removed and chopped

1 T. fresh parsley, stems removed and chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Add olive oil and minced garlic to a cold skillet and turn heat to medium high.

Sauté for 2 minutes, then add tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes (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 tomato and garlic mixture.

Toss until thoroughly combined.

Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight.

Stir and serve chilled with a garden salad, tofu or your favorite main dish.

Enjoy!

Have you ever made an orza pasta salad?

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