Greek cuisine is known for its fresh, vibrant flavors and the ability to create dishes that are both hearty and healthy. If you’re looking for a comforting, satisfying meal that brings the taste of Greece into your kitchen, Greek Baked Orzo is the perfect recipe. This delicious, easy-to-make dish combines the creaminess of feta cheese, the richness of olive oil, and the aromatic herbs that are the hallmark of Greek cuisine. Whether served as a side dish or a main, Greek Baked Orzo is packed with flavor and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into how to prepare this mouthwatering recipe that brings the best of Mediterranean flavors right to your table!
What is Greek Baked Orzo?
Greek Baked Orzo is a Mediterranean-inspired dish made with orzo pasta, a rice-shaped pasta, that’s baked with a rich combination of feta cheese, Kalamata olives, spinach, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. The dish is often enhanced with either heavy cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess, making it a perfect comfort food that still feels light and fresh.
This recipe is a wonderful example of how Greek cuisine blends simplicity with bold, vibrant flavors. You’ll find it’s a fantastic way to incorporate Greek ingredients like feta, olives, and olive oil into your meals, whether for a family dinner or a casual gathering.
The Origin of Greek Baked Orzo
Orzo is a popular pasta shape in Greece and other Mediterranean countries, though it’s used differently from region to region. While it’s commonly found in soups or salads, Greek Baked Orzo turns the traditional orzo pasta into a flavorful casserole-like dish that’s baked until golden brown and bubbly.
The origins of this recipe can be traced back to traditional Greek casseroles, or “baked pastitsio,” where pasta, cheese, and various vegetables or meats are combined and baked. However, Greek Baked Orzo puts a lighter spin on these heartier casseroles by using vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, and olives, which are staples of the Mediterranean diet. The Greek love for feta cheese is evident in this dish, and it’s also a great way to incorporate fresh herbs like oregano and basil into your cooking.
Ingredients with Quantities
To prepare your Greek Baked Orzo, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen), chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious batch of Greek Baked Orzo:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Orzo Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package directions (usually about 7-9 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
While the orzo is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the cherry tomatoes (halved) and cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
Step 5: Add Greens and Olives
Stir in the chopped spinach (fresh or frozen) and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Add the sliced Kalamata olives, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (optional), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Combine the Orzo and the Vegetable Mixture
Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the vegetable mixture. Toss everything together to combine well. Add vegetable broth (or chicken broth) and heavy cream or Greek yogurt (optional) for extra creaminess. Stir until all ingredients are well-coated.
Step 7: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Pour the orzo and vegetable mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
Step 8: Bake the Dish
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The cheese should melt, become bubbly, and turn slightly golden on top. This creates a delicious, crispy top layer.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for an added burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the Mediterranean flavors of your Greek Baked Orzo!
Variations
While this Greek Baked Orzo recipe is already a Mediterranean classic, you can modify it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas for variations:
- Protein Boost: Turn this dish into a full meal by adding cooked chicken, lamb, or shrimp. This will give it a more substantial feel, perfect for those who need extra protein in their meal.
- Different Greens: If you don’t have spinach, consider using kale, Swiss chard, or arugula for a slightly different texture and flavor.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh thyme or fresh dill instead of dried oregano and basil for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Vegan Version: Omit the cheeses and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream for a vegan version. You can also use nutritional yeast as a cheese substitute.
- Spicy Version: If you like things spicy, increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or even add some chopped jalapeños or chili peppers to the dish.
Greek Baked Orzo Recipe: A Flavorful Comfort Dish
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Greek Baked Orzo is the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and comfort. Combining orzo pasta, Mediterranean vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and rich olive oil, this dish is bound to impress your family and guests. Whether you’re preparing it as a side dish or making it a full meal with added protein, Greek Baked Orzo is a versatile recipe that brings the authentic taste of Greece to your table. With its rich flavors, delightful textures, and easy preparation, it’s a must-try for anyone looking to explore Greek cuisine in their own kitchen. Enjoy this tasty, comforting dish, and don’t forget to make it your own with your favorite variations!
Ingredients
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1 lb (450g) orzo pasta
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 small onion, diced
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen), chopped
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1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
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1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp dried basil
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1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
-
1/2 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
Instructions
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package directions (usually about 7-9 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
While the orzo is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the cherry tomatoes (halved) and cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
Stir in the chopped spinach (fresh or frozen) and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Add the sliced Kalamata olives, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (optional), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the vegetable mixture. Toss everything together to combine well. Add vegetable broth (or chicken broth) and heavy cream or Greek yogurt (optional) for extra creaminess. Stir until all ingredients are well-coated.
Pour the orzo and vegetable mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The cheese should melt, become bubbly, and turn slightly golden on top. This creates a delicious, crispy top layer.
Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for an added burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the Mediterranean flavors of your Greek Baked Orzo!
Notes
Serve warm with a sprinkle of feta and fresh herbs. Perfect for cozy dinners or sharing with loved ones. Kali orexi (Bon Appétit)!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Greek
Keywords: Greek Baked Orzo Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Greek Baked Orzo
1. Can I make Greek Baked Orzo ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. This is perfect for meal prepping or when you have guests over.
2. Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
While orzo is ideal for this recipe, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like farfalle, penne, or cavatappi if needed. Just keep in mind the cooking time may differ slightly depending on the pasta shape you use.
3. Can I freeze Greek Baked Orzo?
Yes, this dish freezes well. You can assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
4. Is Greek Baked Orzo gluten-free?
No, this dish is not gluten-free because it uses orzo, which is made from wheat. However, you can substitute with gluten-free pasta if necessary for a gluten-free version.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese, ricotta, or mozzarella. Each will bring a slightly different texture and flavor to the dish.
Conclusion: Enjoying Greek Baked Orzo
In conclusion, Greek Baked Orzo is the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and comfort. Combining orzo pasta, Mediterranean vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and rich olive oil, this dish is bound to impress your family and guests. Whether you’re preparing it as a side dish or making it a full meal with added protein, Greek Baked Orzo is a versatile recipe that brings the authentic taste of Greece to your table. With its rich flavors, delightful textures, and easy preparation, it’s a must-try for anyone looking to explore Greek cuisine in their own kitchen. Enjoy this tasty, comforting dish, and don’t forget to make it your own with your favorite variations!