Mediterranean Orzo Dinner

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to enjoy a comforting and wholesome Mediterranean-style meal that’s perfect for any evening? Let’s talk about a dish that’s simple, flavorful, and deeply satisfying — Orzo Dinner 🍋🍅. This tiny rice-shaped pasta is a gem in Mediterranean kitchens, often found mingling with fresh vegetables, herbs, and tender protein in a silky olive oil or tomato base.

Imagine coming home after a long day, craving something hearty yet light, and in less than 40 minutes, having a steaming bowl of orzo that’s creamy, zesty, and brimming with goodness. Traditionally, this meal combines pantry staples with seasonal produce — it’s the kind of recipe passed down lovingly through families. ❤️

Whether you’re serving it as a side or letting it shine as a main course, this orzo dinner will make your table glow with warmth and flavor. Add a sprinkle of feta, a drizzle of olive oil, and a handful of fresh herbs, and you’ve got a dish that feels like a Mediterranean sunset on your plate. 🌅

So, grab your apron and let’s create this delicious bowl of comfort! 👩‍🍳

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🫒 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups baby spinach
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Finishing

• Juice of ½ lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra drizzle of olive oil for serving

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Orzo:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Drain and drizzle with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
   In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Then add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables:
   Stir in the diced red bell pepper and zucchini. Cook for 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the cherry tomatoes and let them blister slightly — this releases their natural sweetness and juices.
4. Combine with Orzo:
   Reduce the heat to low. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the vegetables, mixing gently to combine. Sprinkle in oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add Greens and Cheese:
   Toss in the baby spinach and let it wilt naturally from the heat of the pasta. Then, stir in crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, tangy flavor that melts beautifully into the dish.
6. Finish and Serve:
   Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the orzo, add chopped parsley, and give everything a final toss. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Serve Warm:
   Spoon the orzo into bowls, drizzle with a bit more olive oil, and top with extra feta or fresh herbs for garnish. Enjoy immediately! 😋

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🧡 Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 25 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 35 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4

⚡ Calories per serving: 380
🥗 Protein: 12g
🌾 Carbohydrates: 54g
💪 Fat: 13g
🧂 Sodium: 240mg
🍋 Fiber: 5g
🧀 Cholesterol: 9mg

This dish is rich in Mediterranean nutrients — heart-healthy fats from olive oil, a good balance of carbs and protein, and plenty of fiber and vitamins from colorful vegetables. It’s a light yet filling dinner that leaves you energized and happy, not heavy or sluggish.

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#MediterraneanOrzo #HealthyDinner #EasyPasta #VegetarianRecipe #WeeknightMeal #ComfortFood

Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️