Delicious Tomato Orzo: A Comforting Dish You’ll Love!
Welcome to the world of Tomato Orzo, a delightful dish that combines the flavors of juicy tomatoes and tender orzo pasta! This recipe is not just about feeding your hunger; it’s a comforting meal that has roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where fresh ingredients and bold flavors reign supreme. Tomato Orzo is popular because it’s easy to make, tastes fantastic, and is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Orzo pasta | 1 cup |
| Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) | 1 can (14.5 oz) or 2 cups |
| Vegetable or chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 small |
| Spinach (fresh or frozen) | 2 cups |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Parmesan cheese (optional) | For topping |
If you don’t have orzo pasta, you can use any small pasta like tiny shells or couscous. Fresh tomatoes can be replaced with tomato sauce if that’s what you have!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Veggies: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft.
- Add the Tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and stir well.
- Add Broth: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and stir everything together.
- Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta and Italian seasoning, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Spinach: Once the orzo is tender, stir in the spinach until it wilts.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, and mix well.
- Serve: Ladle the Tomato Orzo into bowls and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 250 | 12% |
| Protein | 8g | 16% |
| Carbohydrates | 40g | 13% |
| Fats | 6g | 9% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 3g | N/A |
Tips and Tricks
To make your Tomato Orzo even better, here are some handy tips:
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking.
- Try adding other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition!
- Make it creamy by stirring in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking.
- Avoid overcooking the orzo; it should be soft but still have a little bite.
FAQs
What is orzo?
Orzo is a type of pasta that looks like big grains of rice. It’s often used in soups and salads!
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can easily swap out orzo for small pasta shapes like mini shells or even quinoa.
Is Tomato Orzo gluten-free?
No, traditional orzo is made from wheat. However, you can find gluten-free versions made from rice or corn.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth and omit the Parmesan cheese for a delicious vegan meal.
How long does Tomato Orzo last in the fridge?
It can be stored in an airtight container for about 3-4 days. Just reheat before serving!
Can I freeze Tomato Orzo?
Yes, you can freeze it! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat when you’re ready to eat.
What can I serve with Tomato Orzo?
This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or some warm breadsticks.
Is Tomato Orzo a healthy dish?
Yes, Tomato Orzo can be healthy as it includes vegetables and can be made with whole grain pasta. Just watch the portion sizes!
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Definitely! Adding shredded chicken or Italian sausage can make it a heartier meal.
How spicy is this dish?
The basic recipe isn’t spicy, but you can adjust the heat by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time, just store it in the fridge and heat it up when you’re ready to eat!
And there you have it—a delightful, easy-to-make Tomato Orzo recipe that promises to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy savoring every spoonful!
