Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes? Look no further! Orzo, a type of small, grain-like pasta, is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to salads to main courses. In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious orzo recipes that are sure to inspire your cooking. From classic Mediterranean flavors to creamy risottos and savory one-pot meals, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side dish for a special occasion, orzo is the perfect ingredient to keep on hand. And with its mild flavor and chewy texture, it pairs well with a wide range of ingredients, from meats and seafood to vegetables and cheese.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 different orzo recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From comforting classics like creamy mushroom risotto to more adventurous dishes like spicy chorizo and kale, there’s something for every taste and dietary preference.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo: A Bright and Flavorsome One-Pot Wonder!
This recipe is a vibrant and satisfying combination of succulent shrimp, nutty orzo, and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet; cook until pink and just cooked through (about 2-3 minutes per side).
4. Stir in lemon juice, white wine (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer sauce for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked orzo with reserved pasta water and stir into the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes to combine flavors.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Orzo Risotto
Savor the rich flavors of this creamy orzo risotto dish, infused with sautéed mushrooms and a hint of Italian flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; sauté until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, 5-6 minutes.
4. Add white wine (if using) and simmer for 1 minute.
5. Stir in warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, allowing each portion to be absorbed before adding the next.
6. When rice is creamy and tender, stir in butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Orzo
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the richness of feta cheese with the nutty taste of orzo pasta, all wrapped up in a vibrant green spinach package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo pasta, spinach leaves, feta cheese, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the flavors are well combined.
5. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Orzo Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the flavors of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and nutty orzo with a hint of garlic and lemon. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) orzo pasta
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 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 cooked orzo, diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and minced garlic.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, tossing 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.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time)
One-Pot Chicken and Orzo
Quickly cook chicken, orzo, and vegetables in one pot for a satisfying and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add orzo pasta, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Orzo Bake
This Roasted Vegetable Orzo Bake is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. By roasting a variety of vegetables with orzo, garlic, and herbs, you’ll create a deliciously savory and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, toss together chopped onion, minced garlic, and olive oil.
4. Add the roasted vegetables, cooked orzo, and dried oregano to the bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This creamy pasta dish is a perfect blend of Italian flavors, featuring the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes and the richness of pesto. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine pesto and sun-dried tomatoes. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warm and well combined.
3. Add cooked orzo to the skillet, tossing to coat with the pesto mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and toss gently.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Orzo Salad with Olives and Cucumber
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of orzo with the brininess of olives, the crunch of cucumber, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked orzo
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, sliced olives, diced cucumber, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss to combine.
5. If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the salad and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if desired).
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cheesy Baked Orzo with Mozzarella
This creamy, cheesy orzo dish is a perfect comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With the added richness of melted mozzarella cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and sautéed onion mixture. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the orzo mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orzo with Sausage and Peppers
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the nutty goodness of orzo pasta with spicy Italian sausage and sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and bell peppers; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the orzo pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the orzo is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Orzo with Grilled Chicken
Lemon Herb Orzo with Grilled Chicken: A bright and refreshing twist on classic pasta, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add parsley, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Toss cooked orzo with herb mixture. Serve with grilled chicken.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Orzo with Chickpeas
This hearty orzo dish is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, packed with the flavors and nutrients of chickpeas, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chickpeas, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, stirring to combine with the chickpea mixture.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orzo Soup with Spinach and Parmesan
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy orzo soup, infused with the richness of spinach and parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the orzo pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Orzo with Seafood
This recipe combines the simplicity of orzo pasta with the richness of garlic butter and the indulgence of succulent seafood. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), cleaned and patted dry
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add seafood and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
4. Add white wine (if using) and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in cooked orzo pasta and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orzo Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of orzo with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers, creating a unique and delicious dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked orzo
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, cheese, parsley, and olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the orzo mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Orzo with Chorizo and Kale
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of orzo pasta with the spicy kick of chorizo sausage and the earthy taste of kale. A perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors, this dish is quick to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chorizo sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and kale to the skillet; cook until kale is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked orzo pasta to the skillet and toss with chorizo mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash
This comforting side dish combines the nutty flavor of orzo pasta with the sweet, caramelized goodness of roasted butternut squash. Perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 medium butternut squashes (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic in a little olive oil until softened.
5. Add roasted squash, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked orzo with squash mixture. Toss well.
7. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Orzo Carbonara with Bacon and Peas
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the creaminess of carbonara with the sweetness of peas and the smokiness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Add the cooked orzo pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with egg mixture.
5. Add the reserved pasta water in small increments to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon, frozen peas, and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orzo with Lemon and Asparagus
This refreshing springtime pasta dish combines the nutty flavor of orzo with the brightness of lemon and the tender sweetness of asparagus. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of boiling water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the cooked orzo and asparagus mixture. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orzo with Garlic Butter Shrimp and Zucchini
This classic Italian dish gets a flavorful boost with the addition of succulent shrimp, zucchini, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 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, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Add zucchini slices and cook for 2-3 minutes, until tender.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked orzo, shrimp, and zucchini in a large serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 20 mouth-watering orzo recipes! From classic comfort dishes like creamy risotto and cheesy baked goodness, to fresh and flavorful salads and soups, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Try your hand at lemon garlic shrimp orzo, spinach and feta stuffed orzo, or roasted vegetable orzo bake – the possibilities are endless! Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty one-pot meal or a light and refreshing side dish, these recipes will guide you to culinary success.
