Are you looking for a delicious and easy meal that can be prepared in no time? Look no further than orzo, the Mediterranean grain that’s taking the world by storm. With its nutty flavor and versatile nature, orzo is the perfect ingredient to add some excitement to your meals. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, we’ve got you covered with these 19 delicious easy orzo recipes.
From classic combinations like lemon garlic butter orzo with shrimp to more innovative dishes like spicy orzo with bell peppers and onions, there’s an orzo recipe here that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Plus, each dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the Mediterranean, exploring the rich flavors and aromas of this beloved grain. So sit back, relax, and get ready to dig in with these 19 mouthwatering orzo recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Lemon Garlic Butter Orzo with Shrimp
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and aromatic dish, perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion. This recipe combines the creaminess of garlic butter with the zest of lemon and the sweetness of shrimp, all wrapped up in a bed of nutty orzo.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve the shrimp on top of the cooked orzo, spooning some of the garlic butter sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Spinach
This creamy orzo dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite pasta dishes, grilled meats, or as a main course on its own. The combination of tender spinach, nutty parmesan cheese, and savory orzo will surely become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in cooked orzo, spinach leaves, and parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Tomato Basil Orzo
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of orzo pasta with the bright, fresh flavors of tomatoes and basil. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, this one-pot wonder is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the orzo pasta, water, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the orzo is cooked and creamy.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Orzo Salad with Cucumber and Feta
A refreshing summer salad that combines the creamy tang of feta cheese with the cool crunch of cucumber, all tied together with nutty orzo and a drizzle of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked orzo
– 2 cups diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cucumber, feta cheese, parsley, olive oil, and white wine vinegar. Mix well.
3. Add cooked orzo to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time)
Orzo with Roasted Vegetables and Balsamic Glaze
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of orzo pasta with the sweetness of roasted vegetables, all tied together with a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions.
3. Toss vegetables with olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and 1 tablespoon water.
5. Combine cooked orzo, roasted vegetables, and balsamic glaze in a serving dish. Toss to coat.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Easy Orzo Risotto with Mushrooms
This creamy orzo risotto is a twist on the classic Italian dish, made easy and accessible with just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe showcases the comforting flavors of sautéed mushrooms and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add warmed chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Stir in cooked orzo pasta, butter, and parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Orzo Chickpea Bowl
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with tender orzo, creamy chickpeas, and a medley of Mediterranean spices. This hearty dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil, add orzo, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chickpeas to the skillet and stir to combine with the spice mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked orzo and chickpea mixture in a bowl. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Orzo Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing orzo pasta salad, tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette and filled with tender vegetables. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
4. Pour vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Orzo with Grilled Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and satisfying recipe. Creamy garlic butter orzo pairs perfectly with juicy grilled chicken, making for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until combined. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked orzo and garlic butter mixture in the skillet. Toss to coat.
7. Serve grilled chicken on top of orzo and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Artichokes
This Mediterranean-inspired side dish is a flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads. With the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, the tender crunch of artichoke hearts, and the nutty goodness of orzo, this recipe is perfect for springtime gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) orzo
– 2 cups (475ml) water
– 1 can (14.5 oz/410g) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup (115g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a large pot. Add orzo, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
2. Drain the orzo and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
4. Combine cooked orzo with the tomato-artichoke mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Baked Orzo with Broccoli
This recipe combines the comfort of baked pasta with the added nutrition and flavor of steamed broccoli, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy cheesy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 3 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
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-high heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange cooked orzo in an even layer. Top with broccoli and sprinkle with cheese mixture.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Orzo Soup with Spinach and Lemon
This refreshing soup combines the nutty flavor of orzo with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of spinach, making it perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the orzo, vegetable broth, and lemon juice to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
4. Stir in the spinach leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes
This vibrant and flavorful pasta dish is perfect for a light and satisfying meal. With the combination of creamy pesto, tender orzo, and sweet cherry tomatoes, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 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. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and start to soften.
3. Stir in the pesto and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tomato and pesto mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orzo Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the nutty taste of orzo with the sweetness of bell peppers. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (vegetarian option: substitute with nutritional yeast)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
4. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked orzo, cheese (or nutritional yeast), and the onion-garlic mixture.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the orzo mixture and cover with foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Lemon Dill Orzo with Salmon
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of orzo pasta with the freshness of lemon and dill, paired with succulent salmon for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped dill
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 oz salmon fillet, skin removed
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 8 oz water.
2. While orzo cooks, heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add salmon fillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Top with cooked salmon and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orzo with Sausage and Kale
This comforting dish combines the nutty flavor of orzo with the savory taste of sausage and the earthy goodness of kale. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 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 large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the olive oil, onion, and kale to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent and the kale is wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine the cooked orzo with the sausage and kale mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Orzo with Bell Peppers and Onions
This flavorful one-pot dish combines the nutty goodness of orzo pasta with the sweetness of bell peppers, the crunch of onions, and a kick of heat from red pepper flakes. Perfect as a side or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 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 onion and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and cooked orzo. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Orzo Paella with Shrimp and Chorizo
This Spanish-inspired dish is a twist on the classic paella recipe, substituting orzo for traditional rice. The combination of succulent shrimp, spicy chorizo, and saffron-infused flavors creates a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 slices chorizo, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring orzo and water to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chorizo and cook for 2-3 minutes or until browned.
3. Add shrimp, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in saffron-infused water; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked orzo and skillet mixture; stir to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Orzo with Caramelized Onions and Herbs
This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, combining the nutty taste of orzo with the sweetness of caramelized onions and freshness of herbs. It’s an ideal side dish for many occasions, from casual gatherings to elegant dinner parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
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 for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. Add garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in cooked orzo, parsley, and dill. Cook for 1-2 minutes to combine flavors.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 19 easy orzo recipes! From seafood-inspired dishes like Lemon Garlic Butter Orzo with Shrimp, to vegetarian options like One-Pot Tomato Basil Orzo and Orzo with Roasted Vegetables and Balsamic Glaze, there’s something for everyone. Plus, you’ll find hearty bowls like Mediterranean Orzo Chickpea Bowl and Cheesy Baked Orzo with Broccoli, as well as flavorful salads and soups. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to please.
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