Best Orzo Dinner Recipe 🍋🍅🧄
Looking for a quick, cozy, and flavorful meal that feels like a hug in a bowl? 💛 This Best Orzo Dinner Recipe is creamy, comforting, and loaded with fresh Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Tender orzo pasta is simmered with garlic, veggies, and broth, then finished with cheese and herbs for a hearty yet light dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a dinner party side dish — it’s guaranteed to be a family favorite!
⏱️ Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4–6
Ingredients:
2 cups orzo pasta
2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Toast the orzo:
In a large skillet or deep pan, heat olive oil/butter over medium heat. Add the orzo and toast for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden. This step gives it a nutty, rich flavor.
2. Cook the aromatics:
Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened. Stir in diced red bell pepper and cook for another 3 minutes.
3. Add broth and simmer:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring well. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let the orzo simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is tender.
4. Add veggies & creaminess:
Stir in cherry tomatoes and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts and tomatoes soften, about 2–3 minutes. Then add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, and zest. Mix until creamy and well combined.
5. Taste & finish:
Season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Adjust cream or broth if you prefer a looser consistency.
6. Garnish & serve:
Serve warm, topped with fresh parsley or basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Enjoy as a main dish or serve alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations:
✅ Add cooked shredded chicken, shrimp, or sausage for extra protein.
✅ Swap spinach with kale, zucchini, or broccoli for seasonal veggies.
✅ For a vegan option, use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
✅ Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.