One-Pot Orzo (Healthy Recipe) – Elavegan

by he on 12. June, 2023 | give feedback. This post may contain affiliate links*. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

One-Pot Orzo with Tomatoes is a creamy, comforting, healthy, satisfying healthy dish that tastes like faux risotto but cooks in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights and dinner parties!

Creamy and delicious one-pot tomato orzo

If the past few weeks are anything to go by, healthy vegan orzo recipes are becoming one of my go-tos this summer. It is easy to prepare, cooks quickly and tastes light and fresh Mediterranean Orzo Salad as Brothy soup Or this rich, creamy, crowd-pleasing one-pot orzo with tomatoes, garlic, and basil.

Not only is this tomato orzo super quick, easy and delicious, it cooks in one pot and is basically like a ‘cheat’ risotto. By simmering orzo pasta in a vegetable broth and finishing with a creamy, cheesy ingredient, this orzo risotto (aka ‘orzotto’) has the same super creamy, decadent consistency as regular risotto but with less than half the time and effort. Also, I made mine 100% dairy-free and gluten-free.

Pair with garlic bread, a side salad, or your favorite roasted/grilled vegetables and protein, and this easy orzo recipe is a satisfying family dinner everyone will enjoy. If you have leftovers (unlikely!), they store and reheat!

If you’re looking for a more simple vegetarian one-pot meal, check this out Vegan Lasagna Soup, One-pot pasteor Green lentils.

Components and Substitutions

• Earn: Use regular or gluten-free orzo pasta. I used red lentil orzo (risoni), which is naturally gluten-free. Other smaller pasta sizes will also work, such as giant couscous, ditalini, or pastina (adjust cooking time accordingly).
• Olive oil: When combined with cooking tomatoes, this oil will increase our absorption of lycopene (its powerful antioxidant). However, other neutral cooking oils will also work. ie, avocado oil etc.
• Fragrance: Add lots of flavor to this tomato basil orzo with plenty of garlic and onions (or shallots).
• Cherry Tomatoes: Use cherry, grape or mini plum tomatoes. Canned crumbles will work, but the flavor/acidity will change.
• Vegetable Broth: Use (warm) vegetable broth or a stock powder/cube mixed with boiling water. Water will work too, but is much less flavorful.
• Coconut Milk: To add a super creamy finish, I used canned full-fat coconut milk, although a lighter version would work too. If you’re not a fan of coconut, use thin cashew cream or another dairy-free ‘heavy cream’.
• Tomato paste: (optional) for a rich tomato flavor.
• Sea salt and black pepper: The season of taste.
• To sort: i use Vegan Parmesan Cheese (or cheddar cheese/feta cheese), red pepper flakes and fresh herbs like fresh basil. Fresh parsley or thyme would also taste great.

What else can I add to a pot of Orzo?

• Dry white wine: Cook about ¼-1/3 cup pan to de-glaze/cook before adding broth.
• Butter: Use your favorite dairy-free butter and add a spoonful just before serving for a rich, silky mouthfeel.
• Cream Cheese: For an even creamier, cheesier vegan orzo recipe. stir something Dairy-free cream cheese Towards the end.
• Basil Pesto: Tomato basil is a little swirled on top when served for an extra salty, savory, herby flavor to the orzo.
• Chickpeas/white beans: Plenty of plant-based protein and fiber to make a more complete meal.
• Vegetables: Although I usually serve this one-pan orzo alongside vegetables, you can mix it directly into the dish, including:
  • peas (frozen)
  • Corn (frozen or canned)
  • spinach (or kale)
  • zucchini
  • Leeks (sautéed with or instead of onions)

for Complete ingredient list, measurements, complete recipe method, and nutrition information Read the recipe card below.

How to Make Creamy One-Pot Orzo

• First, chop onions, chop garlic and halve cherry tomatoes.
• Next, heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan/skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the onion and fry for about 3 minutes. Then add the garlic and fry for 30-60 seconds.
• Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften slightly. Using a fork or potato masher, gently press them to release their juice.

• Add the orzo, mix well and toast for a minute until lightly golden and fragrant.

• While stirring, pour in the (warm) vegetable broth. Keep stirring until there is no broth.

• Then, reduce the heat and pour in the coconut milk on low heat, cook the orzo for about 5-8 minutes.

• Next, add the tomato paste (if using), taste, and season the orzo with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
• Finally, if you want a saucy tomato orzo, add more broth, cover the pan, and cook for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente. Then serve in bowls on top Vegan Parmesan And basil – enjoy!

Storage information

like others pasta dishThe orzo sauce will continue to soften/moisten as it sits, so it is best consumed fresh but will also store well.

shop: Allow the one-pot orjo to cool and store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. (By this time, the orzo will soften/moisten the sauce).

freeze: You can freeze in a freezer-safe container or Ziploc bag (squeezing out excess air and spreading flat) for up to 2 months. Allow to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat: Use a microwave (in 30-45 second increments) or low heat on the stove. Add extra broth or a splash of dairy-free milk to restore the super creamy consistency.

What to serve with orzo risotto?

FAQs

Is rice healthy?

Orzo is a type of pasta, so it can definitely be part of a healthy diet – especially when it’s balanced with nutritious ingredients like vegetables and protein. For example, this tomato orzo is loaded with antioxidants and nutrients from tomatoes and is usually served alongside additional green vegetables and protein.

Are orzo and risotto the same thing?

Traditional risotto is made with short-grain arborio rice. Meanwhile, orzo, similar to rice in shape, is actually a type of pasta. So, although it can make orzo risotto (or ‘orzoto’), they are not the same and have a soft, silky texture.

Recipe notes and tips

• Toast the orzo: This enhances the flavor and prevents it from becoming soggy during cooking when making creamy one pot orzo ‘Orzoto’.
• For extra flavor: Browning the onion (not cooking until soft) will add depth to the tomato orzo.
• Stir frequently: Make sure the orjo doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
• To adjust the adjustment: Increase the added broth (liquid) for a more soupy/saucy one-pot orzo.

Other Vegan Pasta Recipes

If you try this healthy one pot orjo recipe, I’d love one Comment and ★★★★★ Recipe rating Down below. Also, please don’t forget Tag me in a re-creation on Instagram or Facebook with @ellavegan And #Elvegan– I love to see them.

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