Description
Greek Orzo Comfort Food is a flavorful and easy-to-make Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines tender orzo pasta with vibrant cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, tangy feta, and salty kalamata olives. Perfect as a main or a side, this comforting and healthy recipe comes together quickly on the stovetop, making it ideal for weeknight meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo and Vegetables
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup baby spinach
Add-ins and Seasonings
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced red onion. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften but still hold their shape.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked orzo, fresh baby spinach, dried oregano, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Toss everything together gently and warm through until the spinach wilts.
- Finish with Feta and Olives: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese and sliced kalamata olives. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with fresh dill or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm or chilled as desired.
Notes
- This dish can be served warm as a comforting main or side dish, or chilled as a refreshing pasta salad.
- For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- If you prefer, you can substitute arugula or kale for the spinach for a different green and flavor profile.
- Adjust lemon juice and seasoning to taste depending on your preference.
