Orzo, a type of small pasta, is a staple in many Greek cuisines. Its nutty flavor and versatility make it perfect for a wide range of dishes, from hearty stews to refreshing salads. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Greece with 18 mouthwatering orzo recipes that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast. From classic Greek Orzo Salad with Lemon and Feta to innovative dishes like Baked Orzo with Eggplant and Feta, these recipes showcase the best of Greek cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in the flavors of Greece!
Greek Orzo Salad with Lemon and Feta
Brighten up your salad game with this refreshing Greek-inspired orzo dish, bursting with flavors of lemon, feta, and fresh herbs. A perfect side or light lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cooked orzo, crumbled feta, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and parsley.
3. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well coated with the citrusy dressing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and serve.
One-Pot Greek Orzo with Chicken and Olives
Savor the Mediterranean flavors of Greece in this easy-to-make, one-pot dish featuring tender chicken, plump olives, and nutty orzo.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add orzo, chicken broth, olives, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until orzo is tender and liquid has been absorbed.
5. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Orzo Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender peppers with a hearty orzo and feta mixture.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked orzo, feta cheese, parsley, dill, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each pepper with the orzo mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Greek Orzo
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Greek Orzo: A bright and zesty dish that combines succulent shrimp with the classic flavors of Greece.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz Greek orzo pasta
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to low.
5. In the same skillet, add the lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss to coat with the lemon-garlic sauce.
7. Serve the orzo with the shrimp on top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Orzo and Spinach Bake
A hearty and flavorful side dish that combines the comforting warmth of orzo with the nutritional benefits of spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy Greek-inspired sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add garlic, spinach, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and oregano to the skillet. Cook until spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo pasta and spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mediterranean Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple and delicious orzo recipe, featuring sun-dried tomatoes as the star ingredient.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 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. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they release their flavors and start to break down.
4. Stir in the cooked orzo, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Orzo with Roasted Vegetables
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the nutty goodness of orzo with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the vegetable mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large serving bowl, combine cooked orzo, roasted vegetables, and crumbled feta cheese (if using). Sprinkle with dried oregano and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Orzo with Kalamata Olives and Artichokes
A classic Italian combination of flavors and textures, this recipe brings together the nutty sweetness of orzo pasta, the brininess of Kalamata olives, and the tender crunch of artichoke hearts.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced olives and chopped artichoke hearts to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the flavors meld together.
4. Combine the cooked orzo pasta with the olive-artichoke mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Orzo Pasta Salad with Cucumber and Dill
A refreshing and light pasta salad infused with the flavors of Greece, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. orzo pasta
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tbsp. red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, olives, cucumber, and dill.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, crumble feta cheese on top of the salad.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lamb and Orzo Stuffed Grape Leaves
This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the flavors of lamb, orzo, and grape leaves for a unique and delicious twist on traditional stuffed grape leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 grape leaves (fresh or jarred)
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground lamb, cooked orzo pasta, chopped parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the lamb mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package. Repeat with remaining grape leaves and filling.
5. Grease a baking dish with olive oil and place the stuffed grape leaves seam-side down.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the grape leaves are tender and the filling is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Orzo with Feta and Fresh Herbs
A classic Greek side dish that’s both flavorful and refreshing, this orzo recipe is perfect for accompanying your favorite Mediterranean-inspired main courses.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 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-high heat.
3. Add the warmed chicken broth and stir to combine.
4. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat with the liquid.
5. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped dill.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Orzo with Greek Yogurt Sauce
This recipe is a twist on the classic pasta dish, featuring tender orzo, sweet tomatoes, and creamy Greek yogurt. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 oz Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add halved tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
3. Stir in chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked orzo, tomato mixture, and reserved pasta water in the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt and lemon juice.
6. Serve the orzo mixture topped with the creamy Greek yogurt sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Orzo Soup with Lemon and Egg
A refreshing and satisfying soup that combines the warmth of orzo with the brightness of lemon and the richness of egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the olive oil, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
4. Stir in the lemon juice.
5. Create wells in the soup and crack an egg into each well.
6. Cover the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to desired doneness.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orzo with Grilled Halloumi and Mint
A refreshing summer twist on the classic pasta dish, featuring grilled halloumi cheese and a burst of fresh mint.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 block halloumi cheese (about 6 oz)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the halloumi into 1-inch thick slices and brush with olive oil.
3. Grill the halloumi for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly charred.
4. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, grilled halloumi, and chopped mint leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Orzo and Chickpea Stew
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty and comforting stew, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chickpeas, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Stir in cooked orzo pasta. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Orzo with Eggplant and Feta
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and easy-to-make dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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 bowl, toss eggplant slices with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until coated.
4. Spread the eggplant mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo, roasted eggplant, and crumbled feta cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Orzo with Garlic Butter Shrimp
A classic Mediterranean combination gets a flavorful twist with the addition of succulent shrimp and aromatic garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stir in parsley and reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
5. Combine cooked orzo and garlic butter shrimp mixture. Toss to combine, adding Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orzo with Roasted Red Pepper and Feta
A flavorful and colorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of crumbled feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened.
5. Add roasted red peppers to the skillet and stir to combine with onion mixture.
6. Combine cooked orzo, pepper mixture, and crumbled feta cheese in a large bowl. Toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious world of Greek orzo recipes! This collection of 18 mouth-watering dishes will transport you to the Mediterranean coast, where flavors are bold and bright. From classic salads like Greek Orzo Salad with Lemon and Feta, to hearty one-pot meals like One-Pot Greek Orzo with Chicken and Olives, and even innovative twists like Lamb and Orzo Stuffed Grape Leaves, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant culinary journey. Dive into the world of Greek orzo cooking and savor every bite!
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