Name: Best Orzo Dinner Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489677H34M6S
Total time: PT-489677H34M6S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes or 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes; 2 cups fresh spinach or chopped kale; 2 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley or basil)

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This orzo dinner recipe is one of my favorite quick and cozy meals that comes together in one pan. With tender orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, savory herbs, and a touch of cheese, it’s hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor. Whether I’m making a meatless dinner or looking for a delicious side dish, this orzo never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy and versatile this dish is. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, uses simple pantry ingredients, and still feels like something special. The orzo absorbs all the flavors of the broth and aromatics, creating a creamy, risotto-like texture without all the stirring. I can serve it as a main dish or dress it up with proteins for a full meal. Best Orzo Dinner Recipe

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Orzo pasta
Olive oil
Garlic cloves
Onion, finely chopped
Cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes
Spinach or kale
Vegetable or chicken broth
Parmesan cheese
Lemon juice and zest
Salt and pepper
Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil)

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the onion until it’s soft and translucent.
I add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
I stir in the orzo and let it toast slightly in the oil for extra flavor.
I pour in the broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
I add the cherry tomatoes and cook until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 10–12 minutes.
I stir in the spinach and cook until just wilted.
I finish with a splash of lemon juice, zest, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
I garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes about 25–30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.

Variations

Sometimes I add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to make it more filling. For a Mediterranean vibe, I toss in kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese. I’ve also made a creamy version by adding a splash of heavy cream or stirring in goat cheese at the end. If I’m craving something smoky, I throw in a few roasted red peppers.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I add a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo and warm it over medium heat on the stove. It also reheats well in the microwave—just cover it and stir halfway through. Best Orzo Dinner Recipe

FAQs

What is orzo and how is it different from rice?

Orzo is a small pasta shaped like rice. I cook it like pasta or risotto, and it absorbs flavor beautifully while maintaining a tender bite.

Can I use whole wheat orzo in this recipe?

Yes, I’ve made this with whole wheat orzo, and it works just as well. I just keep an eye on the liquid since it may absorb slightly more.

How do I make this dish vegan?

I simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative. I also make sure to use vegetable broth.

Can I freeze orzo dinner?

I don’t usually freeze this dish because orzo can become mushy after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge within a few days.

What proteins go well with orzo?

I often pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon. Chickpeas or white beans also make a great plant-based option.

Conclusion

This best orzo dinner recipe is my go-to when I want something easy, comforting, and full of flavor. It’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever ingredients I have on hand and fancy enough to serve to guests. Whether I enjoy it as a main dish or a hearty side, it always hits the spot.