Description
This One Pot Chickpea Orzo recipe is a quick and flavorful vegetarian meal that combines tender orzo pasta, protein-packed chickpeas, and a medley of sautéed vegetables. Cooked all in one pot, it’s an easy and comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights or when you want minimal cleanup. Enhanced with herbs, lemon juice, and optional feta cheese, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe offers a delightful balance of textures and bright flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Pantry & Dry Goods
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Finishing Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften.
- Add the Garlic and More Vegetables: Add the minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
- Add Chickpeas and Orzo: Stir in the drained chickpeas and orzo pasta, ensuring everything is evenly mixed.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth and add dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients well.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.
- Add Frozen Peas (Optional): In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas if using, allowing them to heat through.
- Finish with Lemon Juice: Remove the pot from heat and stir in lemon juice for a bright, zesty flavor.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese on top, if desired.
- Serve: Serve warm and enjoy your delicious one-pot chickpea orzo!
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth if not vegetarian.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or tomatoes for extra nutrition.
- Adjust seasoning as needed—more lemon juice can brighten the dish further.
- This recipe can be doubled to serve more people, just adjust the pot size accordingly.
