Roasted Vegetable Orzo (Printable View)
Tender roasted vegetables with orzo, herbs, and feta create this satisfying Mediterranean-inspired dish perfect for any meal.
# What You Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 medium zucchini, diced
02 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
03 - 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
04 - 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
05 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
07 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Orzo
10 - 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
11 - 4 cups vegetable broth or water
12 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Finishing Touches
14 - 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
16 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
17 - Zest and juice of 1 lemon
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, combine zucchini, red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, sprinkle with oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
03 - Spread vegetables on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway, until vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
04 - Bring vegetable broth or water to a boil in a large saucepan. Add orzo and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook according to package instructions for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain, then toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
05 - In a large serving bowl, combine roasted vegetables and cooked orzo. Add feta, basil, parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with extra herbs if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The roasted vegetables develop this natural sweetness that balances perfectly with tangy feta and bright lemon
- It works beautifully for meal prep and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together
02 -
- Dont overcrowd the baking sheet or the vegetables will steam instead of roast
- Reserve some pasta water before draining in case you want to loosen the texture later
03 -
- Cut your vegetables into similar sizes so they roast evenly
- Let the roasted vegetables sit on the hot pan for 5 minutes after cooking to develop deeper flavor