Mediterranean Baked Orzo with Vegetables and Feta
This dish is a perfect blend of tender orzo roasted Mediterranean vegetables salty Kalamata olives and creamy feta cheese. It is an easy one-pan meal that is great for a weeknight dinner or a make-ahead dish for gatherings.
Total Time
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Ingredients
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 zucchini sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
1/2 red onion sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives
1/2 cup feta cheese cubed or crumbled
2 cloves garlic minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Step 1 Roast the Vegetables
Preheat the oven to 400°F 200°C
In a baking dish toss the zucchini cherry tomatoes red onion and garlic with 1 tablespoon of olive oil oregano salt and black pepper
Roast for 15 minutes stirring halfway through
Step 2 Cook the Orzo
In a saucepan cook the orzo in vegetable broth according to package instructions about 7 to 9 minutes Drain and set aside
Step 3 Assemble and Bake
Remove the baking dish from the oven and stir in the cooked orzo and Kalamata olives Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Scatter the feta cheese on top
Return to the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the feta starts to brown slightly
Step 4 Serve
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley Serve warm and enjoy
Tips for the Best Mediterranean Baked Orzo
Use whole wheat orzo for added fiber and a healthier twist
Swap feta cheese for halloumi or goat cheese for a unique flavor
Boost protein by adding grilled chicken shrimp or chickpeas
Roast the vegetables longer for extra caramelization and deeper flavor
Make it ahead as the flavors develop even more the next day
Nutrition Per Serving (Approximate)
Calories 350 to 400
Protein 12 to 15g
Carbohydrates 45 to 50g
Fat 14 to 18g
Fiber 5 to 7g
Sodium 500 to 600mg
This dish is nutrient-dense packed with fiber healthy fats and protein from feta and olives while keeping it balanced and satisfying
Conclusion
Mediterranean Baked Orzo with Vegetables and Feta is a flavorful and wholesome meal that brings together roasted vegetables tender orzo briny olives and creamy feta cheese for a delicious one-pan dish. It is perfect for a weeknight dinner meal prep or even a side dish for gatherings.
With customizable ingredients and a vibrant Mediterranean taste this dish is a great way to enjoy a nutritious and comforting meal. Whether served warm or at room temperature it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser