© Original recipe by Savor & Snap ©
Quick and Easy Orzo Dinner Recipe 🍝✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a quick orzo dish that combines simplicity with flavor, then this orzo dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Made with tender rice-shaped pasta, fresh ingredients, and a creamy sauce, this recipe is a fantastic way to elevate a basic pasta into a gourmet experience. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, you’ll appreciate how fast and versatile this easy pasta dinner comes together.
2. Ingredients list
- 1 ½ cups of orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
3. Step-by-step instructions for making this delicious rice-shaped pasta
Preparing the ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and halving the cherry tomatoes to ensure a smooth and quick cooking process.
Cooking the orzo pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Making the creamy sauce
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Combining tomatoes and spinach
Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they soften, approximately 2-3 minutes. Toss in the spinach and cook until wilted. For additional flavor, sprinkle in dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Adding the pasta and cheese
Stir in the cooked orzo pasta and pour in the heavy cream or coconut cream. Mix well to coat the pasta uniformly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese for a rich, flavorful finish.
4. Storage tips for leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce and microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
5. Serving suggestions
This delicious rice-shaped pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. For added protein, top with grilled chicken or shrimp. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes for a personalized touch.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I substitute the orzo with other pasta types?
Yes, you can substitute with other types of pasta like small shells or pastina. However, orzo offers a unique rice-like texture that makes this dish special.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! Swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream and the Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan easy pasta dinner.
How long does it take to prepare this quick orzo dish?
From start to finish, this recipe takes approximately 20-25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a fast and nutritious meal.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
To make this easy pasta dinner even more enjoyable, consider using high-quality kitchen tools. The Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics can help you prepare delicious sides quickly and with less oil. For efficient cookware, the T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures your pasta and sauce are cooked perfectly without sticking. If you want to take your dish to the next level, the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo can be used to add grilled chicken or veggies to your meal, making it more substantial and flavorful.
8. Variations and Tips to Enhance Your Orzo Dinner
- Add cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for extra protein
- Mix in roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers
- Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of flavor
- Incorporate a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
9. Conclusion
This quick and easy orzo dinner recipe is an excellent addition to your weeknight meal rotation. Its combination of tender delicious rice-shaped pasta, creamy sauce, and fresh ingredients creates a satisfying dish that everyone will love. With minimal prep time and versatile variations, you can customize this easy pasta dinner to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a homemade meal that’s both delicious and effortless!
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Quick and Easy Orzo Dinner Recipe
A flavorful, easy-to-make orzo pasta dish with fresh vegetables and herbs, perfect for a satisfying dinner.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil and parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the orzo in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes and cook until soft.
- Mix in cooked orzo and toss to combine.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and garnish with herbs before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 8mg