Go Back
One of the secrets to enhancing the flavor profile of any dish lies in the cooking method, and roasting vegetables stands out for its ability to transform an ordinary ingredient into something extraordinary. When vegetables are roasted, the dry heat caramelizes their natural sugars, resulting in a deep, rich flavor that elevates the overall dish. This technique not only enhances taste but also brings out the vibrant colors and textures of the vegetables, making them visually appealing as well.

Creamy Orzo with Roasted Veggies

Discover a delicious culinary adventure with Orzo Delight featuring roasted veggies! This vibrant dish combines the unique texture of orzo pasta with roasted zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions for a wholesome meal. The roasting method enhances flavor and brings out the vegetables' natural sweetness, creating a visually appealing and nutritious dish. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is easy to prepare and customizable, making it a family favorite. Enjoy the delightful medley of flavors and textures while nourishing your body with every bite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 small red onion, diced

3 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 cup heavy cream (or a vegan alternative)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan version)

Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

    Roast the Veggies: On a large baking sheet, combine diced zucchini, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Toss to coat evenly, then spread the vegetables in a single layer. Roast for about 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.

      Cook the Orzo: While the vegetables are roasting, bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the orzo pasta, reduce the heat to medium, and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

        Make it Creamy: Once the orzo is cooked, drain any excess broth if necessary. Return the pasta to the saucepan and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the pasta is creamy and the cheese has melted smoothly. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

          Combine and Serve: Gently fold the roasted veggies into the creamy orzo, carefully mixing to combine all the flavors. Let it simmer on low heat for a minute or two to warm everything up.

            Garnish and Enjoy: Plate the creamy orzo with roasted veggies, sprinkle with fresh basil, and if desired, add a little extra Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately and relish the delicious blend of flavors!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 40 mins | 4 servings