Greek Orzo Pasta is a flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired dish combining tender orzo with rich tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and a hint of spice. This one-pan recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup, making it a great option for a busy weeknight meal. The bright flavors of Kalamata olives and feta cheese perfectly complement the earthy notes of oregano and garlic, plus, it’s adaptable for vegetarians or those looking for a lighter dish. Serve it hot with a sprinkling of crumbled feta for a quick, delicious meal.
Greek Orzo Pasta
The way I am loving Greek and Mediterranean flavors this year, you’d think I just got back from some whirlwind trip or something.
Spoiler alert…
I didn’t.
I am just a new convert to these fantastic and bold flavors, and I’m making up for lost time.
This recipe is taking a play on so many of my favorites. The Kalamata olives, feta cheese, red bell peppers, and artichoke hearts add so much to the whole dish. We served this as a side dish for some Greek Marinated Chicken that we grilled up, and it was perfect.
By adding ground beef, ground pork, or sliced sausages, you can make this recipe into a whole meal.
Why you’ll love it!
- Quick and Easy: Made in one pan, it’s a convenient option for busy nights.
- Bold Mediterranean Flavors: Ingredients like Kalamata olives, artichokes, and feta deliver a punch of flavor.
- Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with vegetables and whole grains, this dish is nutritious and filling.
- Customizable: Easily adapted for vegetarians or personalized with your choice of proteins.
- Minimal Cleanup: One skillet means fewer dishes to wash!
Greek Orzo Pasta shopping list
Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here’s the list of items you’ll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Ingredients:
- Olive Oil
- Medium Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Red Bell Pepper, diced
- Orzo
- San Marzano Tomatoes
- Kalamata Olives, halved
- Marinated Artichoke Hearts, quartered
- Chicken Broth
- Mediterranean Oregano
- Salt
- Red Pepper Flakes
- Greek Freak seasoning
- Feta Cheese
How to make Greek Orzo Pasta
This is just the overview so you can see what you’re actually getting into here. When you are cooking, you’ll want to use the full recipe at the bottom of the page.
Recipe Overview:
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened and lightly browned.
- Break the Tomatoes: Add the canned San Marzano tomatoes to the pan, breaking them apart with a spoon.
- Add the Orzo and Liquids: Stir in the orzo, Kalamata olives, artichokes, chicken broth, oregano, salt, red pepper flakes, and Greek Freak seasoning.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes until the orzo absorbs the liquid.
- Finish with Feta: Crumble feta cheese over the top and serve hot.
FAQ
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire dish up to a day in advance. Store it in the fridge, and reheat before serving, adding a little extra broth if needed.
What are some substitutions I can make?
For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also substitute the feta with a plant-based alternative. If you prefer more protein, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the dish.
How do I reheat Greek Orzo Pasta?
Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a bit of added water or broth to loosen up the orzo.
Serve this with…
- A fresh Greek Salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette.
- Grilled Lamb or chicken skewers for extra protein.
- Warm pita bread with hummus or tzatziki for dipping.
Greek Orzo Pasta offers a balanced blend of flavors and textures, making it a great option for any meal. The combination of orzo, vegetables, and Mediterranean seasonings provides a satisfying dish that’s easy to make and enjoy.
More great artichoke recipes to love!
Eat More Orzo!
Greek Orzo Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 1/2 cups orzo
- 28 ounces San Marzano tomatoes
- 1 cup Kalamata olives halved
- 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts quartered
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons Mediterranean oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon Greek Freak
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large high-sided skillet. Break apart the tomatoes.
- Sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until soft and lightly browned.
- Add the remaining ingredients, except the feta, to the pan and reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo has absorbed the liquid.
- Crumble the feta over the top of the pan and serve hot.
Nutrition
Nicole Johnson
Nicole Johnson, a self-taught expert in grilling and outdoor cooking, launched Or Whatever You Do in 2010. Her blog, renowned for its comprehensive and creative outdoor cooking recipes, has garnered a vast audience of millions. Nicole's hands-on experience and passion for grilling shine through her work. Her husband, Jeremiah Johnson, also plays a pivotal role in recipe development, adding his culinary flair to the mix. Together, they form a dynamic duo, offering a rich and varied outdoor cooking experience to their followers.