Are you looking for a delicious and easy dinner option that’s perfect for weeknights? Look no further than orzo! This versatile grain is a staple in many Mediterranean cuisines, and when paired with the right ingredients, it can become a truly show-stopping dish. From hearty one-pot meals to light and refreshing salads, there’s an orzo recipe out there for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of our favorite easy orzo recipes that are sure to become new staples in your kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, meat, or veggies, we’ve got you covered with a range of options that cater to all tastes and dietary preferences. So grab a pot of boiling water, get creative, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of orzo!
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo
A refreshing and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with the sweetness of lemon and garlic, served atop a bed of creamy orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8 ounces orzo pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
4. In the same skillet, add lemon juice, white wine (if using), and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in cooked orzo and chopped parsley (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Feta Orzo Bake
A creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This Spinach and Feta Orzo Bake combines the nutty flavor of orzo with the brightness of spinach and the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked orzo, spinach mixture, and feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Orzo Salad
This refreshing salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender orzo pasta, sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy mozzarella. It’s an ideal side dish for summer gatherings or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
One-Pot Chicken and Orzo
This recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day when you want to cook a delicious meal without much fuss. One-pot wonders are the best, and this dish is no exception – it’s easy, quick, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the orzo, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Orzo
A flavorful and comforting side dish or main course, this Creamy Mushroom Orzo combines tender orzo pasta with sautéed mushrooms and a rich cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and cooked orzo pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Orzo with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This flavorful orzo dish is a perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors, featuring tender pasta, briny olives, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes. Serve as a side or add some grilled chicken for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pitted and chopped green olives
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 8 oz of water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
4. Combine cooked orzo with the olive mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Orzo Skillet
Spicy Sausage and Orzo Skillet: A hearty one-pot dish that combines juicy sausage, nutty orzo, and flavorful spices for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave any drippings in the skillet.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pesto Orzo with Roasted Vegetables
This vibrant and flavorful dish combines the creamy richness of pesto with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables, all wrapped up in a deliciously nutty orzo pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto (or store-bought)
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Toss roasted vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, pesto, and roasted vegetables. Toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Casserole
This comforting casserole combines tender broccoli, creamy cheese, and nutty orzo pasta, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, steam broccoli until tender. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo, steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Orzo with Parmesan and Herbs
Orzo with Parmesan and Herbs: A Simple yet Flavorful Side Dish
This classic Italian-inspired recipe is a staple at many family gatherings and holiday meals. With just a few ingredients, you can create a deliciously flavorful side dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Add the cooked orzo, parsley, and basil to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek-Style Orzo with Cucumber and Feta
This refreshing summer side dish combines the creamy richness of feta cheese with the cooling crunch of cucumber, all wrapped up in a flavorful orzo base. Perfect for hot days or as a light accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked orzo, cucumber slices, and crumbled feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill, if desired.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Orzo with Spinach
This recipe combines the simplicity of orzo pasta with the richness of garlic butter and the nutritional boost of spinach, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. With its creamy sauce and nutty flavor, this Garlic Butter Orzo with Spinach is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the cooked spinach leaves to the skillet and stir until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine the cooked orzo pasta and spinach mixture in a serving dish. Toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional garlic if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Asparagus and Peas
This refreshing springtime pasta dish combines the bright flavors of lemon, asparagus, and peas for a light and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) orzo pasta
– 2 cups (475ml) chicken broth
– 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lb (450g) fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup (120g) frozen peas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the peas to the pan with the asparagus and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, lemon juice, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Add the asparagus and pea mixture to the orzo mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Orzo Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This refreshing summer salad combines the flavors of Italy – juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil – with the nutty goodness of orzo pasta. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves.
3. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Note: To make balsamic glaze, reduce 1 cup of balsamic vinegar on low heat until thickened and syrupy.
Orzo and Chickpea Stew
This flavorful stew is a comforting blend of tender orzo, creamy chickpeas, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a large pot. Add the orzo and reduce heat to low; simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, diced tomatoes, chickpeas, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Combine the cooked orzo and chickpea mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Orzo Soup
Roasted Red Pepper and Orzo Soup Recipe
This hearty soup combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the creamy texture of orzo pasta, making it a perfect comfort food for any time of year. With its vibrant color and robust flavor, this soup is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place red peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
2. Remove peppers from the oven and let cool. Peel off skin, discarding it, and chop peppers into small pieces.
3. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked orzo, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
5. Bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-55 minutes
Orzo with Caramelized Onions and Thyme
This hearty side dish combines the nutty flavor of orzo pasta with sweet caramelized onions and a hint of thyme. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats, vegetables, or as a standalone vegetarian option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
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 olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until dark golden brown and caramelized.
4. Add cooked orzo, salt, black pepper, and thyme sprigs to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add minced garlic and stir to combine.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Grilled Chicken
A flavorful and satisfying dinner that combines the creaminess of parmesan cheese with the nuttiness of garlic orzo and the smokiness of grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant (1 minute).
4. Add Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked orzo with the garlic-Parmesan mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Slice grilled chicken into strips. Serve with garlic Parmesan orzo.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orzo with Zucchini and Cherry Tomatoes
This colorful dish celebrates the flavors of summer, combining the nutty taste of orzo with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the freshness of zucchini. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add garlic and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine cooked orzo with zucchini mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Orzo Risotto with Peas and Mint
This refreshing orzo risotto combines the sweetness of fresh peas and mint with the creaminess of Parmesan cheese, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the orzo and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the peas, mint, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional mint if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these 20 delicious and easy orzo recipes! From seafood-inspired dishes like Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo, to comforting casseroles like Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Casserole, there’s something for everyone. These quick and flavorful recipes are perfect for busy weeknights, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a creamy mushroom sauce or a refreshing Mediterranean-inspired salad, these orzo recipes will become new favorites in no time.
Leave a Reply