Get ready to fall in love with the humble grain that’s stealing the show – Orzo! This tiny, tube-shaped pasta has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, and it’s time to give it the recognition it deserves. From hearty casseroles to refreshing salads, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering orzo recipes that are sure to delight both vegetarians and flexitarians alike.
Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy and comforting or light and zesty, our collection of orzo recipes has got you covered. With flavors ranging from classic Mediterranean to modern twists like harissa-spiced and coconut-curry infused, there’s an orzo dish here to suit every taste bud. So, let’s dive into the world of orzo and discover some new favorite dishes!
Lemon Garlic Orzo with Spinach and Feta
Lemon Garlic Orzo with Spinach and Feta: A bright and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for springtime gatherings or a light weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. orzo pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add lemon juice and spinach to the skillet. Stir until spinach is wilted.
4. Combine cooked orzo with the spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Orzo Salad
Roasted Vegetable Orzo Salad Recipe
Discover a flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the nutty goodness of orzo with the sweetness of roasted vegetables!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Toss sweet potato, red bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil, garlic, and oregano on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, roasted vegetables, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Vegan Orzo with Mushrooms
This comforting dish combines the warmth of sautéed mushrooms with the creamy richness of a plant-based sauce, all wrapped up in tender orzo pasta. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked orzo with mushroom mixture and toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Orzo
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Orzo Recipe
This Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil with the nutty goodness of orzo pasta. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and cook for an additional minute.
4. Once the orzo is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the tomato-basil mixture.
5. Toss the orzo to combine with the flavors and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Orzo with Chickpeas and Olives
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines the comfort of orzo pasta with the bright, tangy flavors of the Mediterranean. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a large saucepan.
2. Add the orzo pasta, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until al dente.
3. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Fluff cooked orzo with a fork. Stir in chickpea mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Orzo Casserole
A creamy and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of spinach and artichokes with the comfort of orzo pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Stir in cooked spinach and artichoke hearts.
5. Combine cooked orzo pasta with the spinach-artichoke mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Orzo with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta game with this easy and delicious recipe that combines the creaminess of pesto with the natural sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan, and garlic; process until smooth.
4. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
5. Toss cooked orzo with pesto sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Roast cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
7. Combine cooked orzo and roasted cherry tomatoes; toss to combine.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Zucchini and Parmesan Orzo Bake
This recipe combines the flavors of zucchini, parmesan cheese, and orzo pasta for a quick and easy dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week. With only 20 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes in the oven, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add sliced zucchini and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, zucchini mixture, garlic, parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes total (20 minutes prep + 30 minutes baking)
Spicy Harissa Orzo with Roasted Cauliflower
Spicy Harissa Orzo with Roasted Cauliflower: A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that combines the warmth of harissa with the crunch of roasted cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp harissa powder (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and harissa powder. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add roasted cauliflower florets to the skillet; toss to coat with spice mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked orzo and cauliflower mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Orzo Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the nutty taste of orzo with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked orzo
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked orzo, parsley, feta cheese, mint, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the orzo mixture and place them in a baking dish.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek-Style Orzo with Cucumber and Mint
Experience the refreshing flavors of Greece with this light and zesty orzo dish, perfect for warm weather or as a side to your favorite Mediterranean-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, mint leaves, cucumber slices, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, crumble feta cheese on top for added flavor.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooking time for orzo)
Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Skillet
This Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Skillet recipe combines the best of both worlds – a hearty and comforting one-pot meal that’s quick to prepare. With orzo, broccoli, and a blend of cheeses, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add broccoli, onion, and garlic; cook for 3-4 minutes until tender.
3. Add cooked orzo to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetables.
4. Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the top; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until melted and bubbly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orzo with Caramelized Onions and Thyme
This comforting orzo dish is a perfect blend of sweet caramelized onions and savory thyme, ideal for a cozy dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Stir in salt, black pepper, and thyme sprigs. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked orzo with caramelized onion mixture. Toss to combine.
6. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Avocado and Lime Orzo Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the creamy texture of avocado with the bright zing of lime juice, all tossed with nutty orzo pasta. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, diced avocado, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Sage
Savor the sweet and nutty flavors of roasted butternut squash paired with the earthy notes of sage in this simple yet satisfying orzo dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound orzo pasta
– 2 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss squash cubes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Add roasted squash to the cooked orzo and toss to combine.
5. Stir in chopped sage and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caprese Orzo with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant Caprese-inspired orzo dish, featuring the sweetness of balsamic glaze. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup diced fresh mozzarella (such as buffalo mozzarella)
– 1/2 cup diced fresh tomatoes (such as heirloom or cherry tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked orzo with the skillet mixture.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orzo and Lentil Stuffed Eggplant
This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the nutty flavor of orzo with the comforting warmth of lentils, all wrapped up in tender roasted eggplant. A perfect vegetarian option for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup cooked orzo
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, mix cooked lentils, orzo, onion, garlic, and tomato sauce in a bowl.
5. Once the eggplants are done, fill each half with the lentil mixture and top with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Coconut Curry Orzo
This recipe combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the warm, aromatic flavors of curry powder and the nutty texture of orzo pasta. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add grated ginger and curry powder; cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Add cooked orzo pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the creamy curry sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orzo with Asparagus and Lemon Zest
This spring-inspired orzo dish is a perfect combination of tender asparagus, bright lemon zest, and nutty orzo. This recipe makes for a light and refreshing main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until tender.
3. Add the garlic and lemon juice to the skillet with the asparagus. Cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally.
4. Fluff the cooked orzo with a fork and add it to the skillet with the asparagus mixture. Stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with lemon zest and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orzo Primavera with Seasonal Vegetables
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant and flavorful orzo dish, packed with a medley of seasonal vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 small carrot, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and carrot. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in cooked orzo and mixed greens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the delightful world of orzo recipes! This collection of 20 vegetarian delights showcases the versatility of this Greek staple. From classic combinations like lemon garlic and feta, to bold flavors like spicy harissa and roasted cauliflower, there’s something for every taste. Try creamy vegan orzo with mushrooms, Mediterranean-inspired orzo with chickpeas and olives, or savory orzo studded with roasted butternut squash and sage. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick salad or a hearty casserole, these recipes will inspire your next meal.
