Description
Chickpea Orzo is a quick dinner that feels cozy, fresh, and full of flavor in every bite. Tender orzo cooks in a savory tomato broth with chickpeas, garlic, herbs, lemon, and Parmesan for an easy recipe that works beautifully for busy weeknights, simple dinner ideas, meatless meals, and comforting food ideas the whole family can enjoy.
Ingredients
1 cup orzo
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup diced tomatoes
2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then cook the onion until soft and translucent.
2. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, and cook briefly until fragrant and slightly deepened in color.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and orzo, stirring well so the pasta is coated in the flavorful base.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth, then season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered, stirring often, until the orzo is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
6. Turn the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan, parsley, dill, and lemon juice until the dish is creamy and bright.
7. Serve warm with extra Parmesan, herbs, or lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
Do not let the orzo sit too long on the heat after it turns tender, or it can absorb too much liquid and become too thick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: chickpea orzo, easy dinner, quick dinner, meatless dinner, one pan pasta, orzo recipe, Mediterranean dinner, comfort food, weeknight dinner, food ideas