Description
Flavorful Veggie Orzo is a quick and healthy one-pan meal. It features tender orzo pasta and fresh vegetables, ready in under 30 minutes. This colorful dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, offering a plant-based option without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 zucchini, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 3/4 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Optional garnish: fresh basil, lemon zest, or chili flakes
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add bell pepper and zucchini. Cook 4–5 minutes until slightly tender, then stir in cherry tomatoes and peas.
- Add dry orzo to the skillet and stir to coat with the veggies. Pour in vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese if using. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with basil or lemon zest before serving.
Notes
- For a vegan version, skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free substitute.
- Add protein like chickpeas or tofu for extra nutrition.
- For meal prep, cool before storing and reheat with a splash of broth to refresh texture.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a flavor boost.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Vegetarian, One-Pot
- Method: Sautéed, One-Pan
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Veggie Orzo, Vegetable Orzo, One Pan Meals, Healthy Orzo Recipes, Easy Vegetarian Dinner, Orzo Pasta with Vegetables, Quick Orzo Skillet, Meatless Meals, Mediterranean Orzo Recipe, Weeknight Dinner Ideas