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A vibrant plate of cooked orzo pasta mixed with cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, and grated cheese, served on a stylish dinner plate.

Effortless Orzo Delight: Your Flavorful Dinner Solution!

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Discover the quickest and most delicious orzo dinner recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This effortless orzo delight combines fresh ingredients, savory flavors, and a satisfying texture, making it your go-to solution for a flavorful dinner in minutes. Ideal for pasta lovers looking for an easy yet impressive meal.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup cooked chicken or shrimp (optional)
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Gather all your ingredients and prepare vegetables and proteins as needed.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in chopped spinach until wilted.
  3. Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat with vegetables. Pour in broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  4. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, cooked protein if using, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through and well combined.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in microwave or skillet with a splash of broth or oil.
  • Enhance flavor with extra herbs or a squeeze of lemon.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian option (without meat)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1 cup)
  • Calories: 350 Kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg