Orzo is the unsung hero of the pasta world—shaped like rice but with the satisfying chew of pasta. This veggie-packed Orzo Dinner Recipe is a vibrant, one-skillet meal that celebrates fresh produce. It features toasted orzo simmered in broth with spinach, cherry tomatoes, and chickpeas, finished with a generous squeeze of lemon and feta cheese. It’s light yet filling, making it perfect for a Meatless Monday or a quick, healthy lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One Skillet, Big Flavor
Everything cooks in one pan, which means the orzo absorbs the flavor of the vegetable broth and aromatics rather than just plain water. The starch from the pasta naturally thickens the liquid into a silky sauce that coats the vegetables. It’s a technique similar to risotto but without the constant stirring.
Nutrient Dense
This dish is a rainbow of nutrition. You get protein from the chickpeas and feta, vitamins from the spinach and tomatoes, and energy-sustaining carbs from the orzo. It’s a Mediterranean-style meal that leaves you feeling good.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups orzo pasta (uncooked)
- 1 can (15oz) chickpeas, rinsed
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 lemon juiced and zested
- 0.5 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Sauté onion and garlic. Add orzo and toast for 1 minute.
- Add broth, chickpeas, and tomatoes. Bring to boil.
- Simmer covered for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Stir in spinach until wilted. Remove from heat.
- Stir in lemon juice and top with feta.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Orzo: The rice-shaped pasta.
Chickpeas: Canned, rinsed. Adds protein and texture.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach wilts perfectly.
Cherry Tomatoes: Burst during cooking to create a light sauce.
Lemon: Juice and zest for brightness.
Feta Cheese: Adds a salty, creamy finish.
Vegetable Broth: The cooking liquid.
Smart Substitutions
You can use white beans (cannellini) instead of chickpeas. If you want meat, grilled chicken or shrimp can be placed on top. Asparagus or zucchini are great veggie additions. For a vegan version, omit the feta or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Mince garlic and dice onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Rinse the chickpeas.
Cooking Phase
Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Add the dry orzo to the pan and toast for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden. This adds nuttiness.
Stir in the broth, chickpeas, tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt.
Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice and zest. Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Toasting the orzo is optional but highly recommended; it prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and adds flavor depth. Also, keep an eye on the liquid level. Orzo is thirsty! If it looks dry before the pasta is cooked, add a splash more broth or water.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t overcook the orzo. It can turn into a solid block of starch if cooked too long. It should be al dente with a little bit of saucy liquid left in the pan.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 6g |
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve in shallow bowls garnished with fresh parsley or dill.
Pairing Suggestions
Pairs well with grilled fish or simply crusty bread. If you enjoy veggie-heavy grain dishes, check out our Chicken Wild Rice Soup (Veggie Heavy) for another nutritious option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I use rice instead?
Yes, but cooking times and liquid ratios will change. Rice takes longer (20 mins).
Q2? Is orzo gluten-free?
No, orzo is wheat pasta. Use a gluten-free orzo substitute if needed.
Q3? Can I meal prep this?
Yes, it keeps well for 3-4 days. It may need a splash of water when reheating.
Conclusion
This One-Skillet Orzo Dinner is fresh, fast, and flavorful. It transforms simple pantry staples into a gourmet vegetarian meal in under 20 minutes.
