Introduction
Bright and zesty, this One Pan Lemon Spinach Orzo with Feta is a quick and easy meal that’s bursting with fresh flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting dish comes together in just 25 minutes, featuring tender orzo, vibrant spinach, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese, all brought together with a refreshing lemony twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly golden.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are slightly softened.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Variation
- Substitute the orzo with arborio rice to transform the dish into a creamy lemon spinach risotto.
- Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for an additional layer of sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Incorporate grilled shrimp or pan-seared tofu to make this dish a hearty, protein-rich meal.
Cooking Notes
- For extra zest, sprinkle additional lemon zest on top before serving.
- Substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for added richness if not vegetarian.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy as a hearty main dish: Serve it on its own, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon to highlight its bright flavors.
- Pair with a protein: Complement the dish with simple grilled chicken or fish, letting the zesty orzo act as a flavorful base for your meal.
- Serve alongside a mezze platter: Combine with dips like hummus or tzatziki, olives, and roasted vegetables to create a Mediterranean-inspired spread.
Tips
- Toasting the orzo before adding the liquid enhances its nutty flavor, so don’t skip this step.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright and zesty flavor. Bottled lemon juice may lack the same freshness.
- Stir the orzo occasionally while it simmers to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- If the orzo absorbs all the liquid before it’s fully cooked, add a small amount of hot water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 480mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it in advance and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of vegetable broth. - What can I use instead of feta cheese?
Goat cheese or a dairy-free feta substitute works well for similar creaminess. - Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze portions for up to a month. Reheat with extra liquid to restore texture. - Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Thaw and drain it well before adding to the skillet.
Conclusion
This One Pan Lemon Spinach Orzo with Feta is a delightful, zesty recipe that’s easy to prepare and full of fresh Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the bright, tangy taste of lemon paired with creamy feta and fresh veggies for a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
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One Pan Lemon Spinach Orzo With Feta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Bright and zesty, this One Pan Lemon Spinach Orzo with Feta is a quick and easy meal that’s bursting with fresh flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting dish comes together in just 25 minutes, featuring tender orzo, vibrant spinach, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese, all brought together with a refreshing lemony twist.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly golden.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are slightly softened.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra zest, sprinkle additional lemon zest on top before serving.
- Substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for added richness if not vegetarian.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-Pan Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 16mg
Keywords: Lemon Spinach Orzo, One-Pan Recipes, Vegetarian Orzo, Quick Dinner Ideas