Description
This Herbed Mediterranean Orzo Dinner is a vibrant and flavorful one-pan dish combining tender orzo pasta with sautéed vegetables, kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese. Infused with fragrant herbs like oregano and basil, and finished with fresh parsley and lemon juice, this meal offers a perfect balance of Mediterranean flavors that’s quick to prepare and satisfying for any dinner occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo & Base
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Add-ins & Garnish
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Cook the orzo: Begin by cooking the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain it well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté the onion: Add the finely chopped red onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the aroma to release without burning.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the diced zucchini and red bell pepper to the skillet. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become tender.
- Add tomatoes and herbs: Incorporate the halved cherry tomatoes along with dried oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes slightly soften and the herbs infuse the mixture.
- Combine orzo: Add the drained orzo to the skillet, stirring well to combine the pasta evenly with the sautéed vegetables and herbs.
- Mix in olives and feta: Stir in the sliced kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese gently, allowing the cheese to start melting slightly and blend with other ingredients.
- Finish with fresh ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top. Toss everything together carefully to combine all flavors.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired dinner.
Notes
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- You can add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and gently reheated.
