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One Pot Creamy Tomato Orzo Recipe

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★★★★★

4.3 from 38 reviews

A comforting and creamy one-pot tomato orzo dish featuring tender chickpeas, fresh spinach, and fragrant basil, all simmered in a savory tomato and vegetable broth base, finished with Parmesan for a rich, flavorful meal ready in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 large garlic cloves (finely chopped)
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 1 can 14 oz/400g chickpeas (drained and rinsed)

Finishing Ingredients

  • 1 cup half and half
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan (freshly grated)
  • 6–8 fresh basil leaves (roughly torn)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat oil and garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and cook for just 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  2. Add herbs and tomato paste: Stir in the dried basil and red chili flakes if using, then add the tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the tomato paste darkens in color to develop its flavor.
  3. Simmer orzo and chickpeas: Pour in the vegetable broth and mix well. Add the orzo and drained chickpeas, stir again, then simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is al dente.
  4. Add cream and spinach: Stir in the half and half and baby spinach. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the mixture is creamy.
  5. Finish with cheese and basil: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan and torn fresh basil leaves. Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil if desired.

Notes

  • You can substitute half and half with a dairy-free cream alternative for a lactose-free version.
  • For extra protein, consider adding cooked chicken or sausage.
  • Adjust chili flakes based on your spice preference or omit entirely for a milder dish.
  • Use gluten-free orzo or a small pasta like rice-shaped quinoa for a gluten-free adaptation.
  • This dish is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently with a little extra broth or cream.

Keywords: one pot, tomato orzo, chickpeas, creamy orzo, vegetarian pasta, quick dinner, Mediterranean recipe, spinach, Parmesan

Find it online: https://foodiecara.com/one-pot-creamy-tomato-orzo-recipe/