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)
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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