If you are on the lookout for a vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying dish that feels both fresh and indulgent, the lsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad is an absolute must-try. This recipe perfectly balances the sweet tang of a strawberry balsamic glaze with the creamy, salty bite of ricotta salata, all tossed with tender orzo pasta and fresh herbs. It’s not just a salad; it’s a delightful experience that invites summer to your plate any time of the year!

lsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this lsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating vibrant flavors and textures that complement one another harmoniously.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean protein that grills up juicy and perfect for pairing with the fresh salad.
Fresh strawberries: These lend a natural sweetness and form the base for the luscious balsamic glaze.
Balsamic vinegar: Adds a rich tang and depth to the glaze, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
Ricotta salata: A salty, crumbly cheese that adds a creamy contrast to the salad’s fresh ingredients.
Orzo pasta: Small, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up the lemon and olive oil dressing, adding satisfying texture.
Cherry tomatoes: For bursts of juicy, bright flavor and color.
Fresh arugula or spinach: Peppery greens that bring freshness and a healthy pop of color.
Fresh basil: Aromatic herb that enhances the Mediterranean vibe of the dish.
Olive oil and lemon juice: The essential dressing ingredients that brighten and balance the entire salad.
Seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano): Kick up the flavor and perfectly season both chicken and salad.
Honey or maple syrup: For a touch of natural sweetness in the glaze.

How to Make lsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Balsamic Glaze

Begin by combining chopped fresh strawberries, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of black pepper in a small saucepan. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a glaze consistency. You can then mash it slightly with a fork for some texture or blend it smooth, depending on your preference. This glaze is the star ingredient that brings a sweet and tangy punch to the chicken and ties the entire dish together.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

While the glaze is simmering, cook your orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the orzo and let it cool just enough so it won’t wilt your greens when tossed together. The orzo provides a delightful bite and acts as the perfect canvas for the fresh ingredients and dressing in your salad.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad

In a spacious bowl, mix the cooked orzo with crumbled ricotta salata, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh arugula or spinach, and chopped basil. Drizzle the salad with olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice, then season it gently with salt and pepper. Toss everything carefully so each bite is bursting with flavors and textures, from creamy, salty cheese to crisp greens and juicy tomatoes.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan on medium-high heat. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Grill each piece for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until nicely charred on the outside and cooked through inside. The herb seasoning combined with that caramelized char takes this simple chicken to new heights and pairs beautifully with the sweet glaze and fresh salad.

Step 5: Serve

Slice the grilled chicken and drizzle it generously with the strawberry balsamic glaze. Serve it plated alongside a generous helping of the lsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad for a meal that is colorful, balanced, and irresistible.

How to Serve lsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad

Garnishes

To elevate this salad even further, sprinkle some additional crumbled ricotta salata or fresh basil leaves over the top just before serving. A few whole fresh strawberries or a light drizzle of extra balsamic glaze add a beautiful, appetizing finish that will impress your guests with minimal effort.

Side Dishes

While this dish is a complete meal on its own, you can complement it with light sides such as crusty garlic bread, a simple green bean almondine, or a chilled cucumber and mint yogurt sauce. These pairings keep things fresh and enhance the Mediterranean flavors without overpowering the main attraction.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting presentation, serve the lsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad in shallow, wide bowls to showcase its vibrant colors. Or portion out the salad on individual plates and arrange the grilled chicken slices like a fan on the side, then drizzle the strawberry glaze artistically over the top. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This lsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to three days. Store the salad and chicken separately in airtight containers to preserve freshness and prevent the greens from wilting. The glaze can be kept in a small jar or container, ready for reheating and drizzling.

Freezing

While the grilled chicken freezes well, the salad itself is best enjoyed fresh since the greens and fresh tomatoes do not freeze nicely. Freeze any leftover chicken in a sealed container for up to two months and thaw thoroughly before reheating and serving with freshly made salad or greens.

Reheating

To reheat the grilled chicken, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat or microwave it in short bursts, making sure it stays juicy. Warm the strawberry balsamic glaze separately on the stovetop or in the microwave before drizzling over chicken. Serve alongside freshly tossed orzo salad for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use another cheese instead of ricotta salata?

Absolutely! Feta or Parmesan can be good substitutes if you want a similar salty and tangy flavor profile. Just keep in mind that ricotta salata has a unique crumbly texture that really complements the orzo perfectly.

Is the strawberry balsamic glaze sweet or tangy?

The glaze is a beautiful balance of both sweet and tangy, with the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries and honey pairing with the rich acidity of balsamic vinegar. It gives the grilled chicken a deliciously complex flavor.

Can this salad be made vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the grilled chicken and replace the ricotta salata with a plant-based cheese alternative or toasted nuts for crunch. The balsamic glaze remains the same, making for a flavorful vegan-friendly salad.

What type of orzo should I use?

Regular wheat-based orzo works well in this recipe. If you need a gluten-free option, look for orzo made from rice or corn. Cook as per package instructions and ensure it’s al dente for the best texture.

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Definitely! The strawberry balsamic glaze can be prepared up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just warm it gently before using to bring back its luscious pourable consistency.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say this lsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals for dinner parties, weeknight dinners, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something incredibly tasty and fresh. It’s easy to make yet wonderfully sophisticated in flavor, delivering that perfect bite every time. So grab those fresh ingredients and give this recipe a whirl—you won’t regret it!