Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a vibrant and wholesome dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious! Our One Pot Orzo Primavera is a delightful Italian-inspired recipe that brings together fresh vegetables and tender orzo pasta in a creamy, flavorful embrace. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Dive into this colorful medley and discover how simple ingredients can create a meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wide-bottomed pan over medium heat. The pan should be large enough to accommodate all ingredients comfortably.
- Add diced bell peppers and zucchini to the pan. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables start to soften and develop slight caramelization, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Pour in the orzo pasta and vegetable broth. Stir to combine and ensure the pasta is evenly distributed in the liquid.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir gently to incorporate the seasonings.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pan and let cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom.
- When the orzo is almost tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, add halved cherry tomatoes. Stir them into the pasta gently.
- Continue cooking uncovered for an additional 2-3 minutes until orzo is fully cooked and has a creamy consistency. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more broth or water.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 2-3 minutes to allow the dish to set and become slightly thicker.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge. This will make the cooking process even quicker when you're ready to whip up this dish!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables. Asparagus, spinach, or peas can add a delightful twist to the recipe.
- Watch the Liquid: Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks; if it starts to look too dry, add a splash more vegetable broth or water to keep it creamy and prevent sticking.
- Garnish for Flavor: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Leftover Magic: This dish makes excellent leftovers! Store any remaining orzo primavera in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will taste just as good the next day—just reheat gently on the stove.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
