Description
Flavorful Veggie Orzo is a quick, healthy, and satisfying one-pan meal packed with tender orzo pasta and fresh vegetables. Ready in under 30 minutes, this colorful dish makes the perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep option for anyone looking to eat more plant-based 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
- Sauté Aromatics: 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 Veggies: Add bell pepper and zucchini. Cook 4–5 minutes until slightly tender, then stir in cherry tomatoes and peas.
- Cook the Orzo: 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.
- Finish and Serve: 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: toss in chickpeas or tofu for extra nutrition.
- Meal prep tip: cool before storing and reheat with a splash of broth to refresh texture.
- Flavor booster: finish with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
- 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