Best Orzo Dinner Recipe

Delicious Orzo Dinner Recipe for Easy and Savory Meals 🍝✨

Delicious Orzo Dinner Recipe for Easy and Savory Meals 🍝✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a pasta recipe that combines speed, flavor, and simplicity, then this orzo dinner recipe is exactly what you need. Known for its tiny, rice-like grains, orzo is a versatile ingredient that transforms into a hearty and delicious easy recipe. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner for busy weeknights or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe will satisfy your cravings for savory flavors and a comforting texture. Ready to create a flavorful and effortless dish? Let’s dive into this fabulous orzo dinner recipe.

2. Ingredients for the Perfect Orzo Dinner Recipe

  • 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup spinach leaves
  • 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for this Easy Orzo Dinner Recipe

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients, chop the onion, mince the garlic, and halve the cherry tomatoes for a smooth cooking process.

Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the Orzo Pasta

Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to coat with the aromatics. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes.

Add Vegetables and Protein

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the cherry tomatoes and spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the spinach wilts. For added protein, incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu, following your preference.

Finish with Cheese and Seasonings

Remove from heat, then mix in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to combine all flavors evenly.

4. Storage Tips for Your Orzo Dinner

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist and flavorful.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Savory Orzo Meal

This orzo dinner recipe pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also top it with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness. For a heartier version, consider adding sliced grilled chicken or a handful of sautéed mushrooms.

6. FAQ about this Easy Orzo Dinner Recipe

Can I substitute orzo with another pasta?

Yes! If you don’t have orzo, small pasta shapes like pastina or Israeli couscous work well as substitutes.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! Just omit any meat, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian pasta meal.

How long does it take to prepare this orzo dinner?

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Use vegetable broth and vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to keep it plant-based.

7. Kitchen Tools You Might Need for This Recipe

8. Final Tips for Making Your Best Orzo Dinner

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, don’t overcook the orzo, and customize the toppings to suit your taste. This versatile easy recipe can easily be adapted to suit any dietary needs or personal preferences.

9. Conclusion

With this delicious orzo dinner recipe, you can enjoy a flavorful, easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Its quick prep time and versatile ingredients make it a must-try for anyone looking to whip up a savory meal in no time. So why not gather your ingredients and indulge in this delightful pasta dish today?

Print
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A vibrant plate of cooked orzo pasta garnished with fresh herbs and cherry tomatoes, served alongside a colorful vegetable medley, with a rustic wooden background and natural lighting highlighting the textures and bright colors of the dish.

Delicious Orzo Dinner Recipe for Easy and Savory Meals

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A quick and savory orzo pasta dish packed with fresh herbs and vegetables, ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup spinach leaves
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  4. Stir in orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  5. Add cherry tomatoes and spinach, cook until vegetables are tender.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
  7. Serve hot garnished with additional basil if desired.

Notes

  • You can add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
  • Use veggie or chicken broth for different flavor profiles.
  • Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 330 Kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

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