Skillet Baked Orzo
Mediterranean Easy

Skillet Baked Orzo

Creamy one-pan pasta with zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and feta

mediterraneanvegetarianone-potdinnerweeknightbaked
β€” (0 ratings)
⏱️ 45 minutes 15 minutes prep · 25 minutes cook
🍽️ 4 Serves
485 Calories
17g Protein
74g Carbs
13g Fat

Why This Recipe Works

This technique uses the orzo's natural starches to create a luscious, risotto-like sauce without the constant stirring or heavy cream. Finishing the dish in the oven ensures the summer vegetables stay vibrant and firm while the pasta reaches the perfect texture.


Instructions

1

Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and heat the oven to 400Β°F.

2

Heat the olive oil in a 12-inch ovensafe nonstick skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the onion and a pinch of salt, then cook until the onion is softened and translucent, 5 to 7 minutes.

3

Stir in the garlic and orzo. Cook, stirring frequently, until the orzo is fragrant and lightly browned, about 3 minutes.

4

Stir in the vegetable broth, wine, and a half-teaspoon of salt. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the orzo is al dente, 12 to 15 minutes.

5

Remove the skillet from the heat. Gently fold in the zucchini, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and lemon zest until the spinach just begins to wilt.

6

Sprinkle the crumbled feta evenly over the top of the pasta. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the zucchini is tender and the feta has softened, about 10 minutes.

7

Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to set. Sprinkle with fresh mint and serve warm with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

πŸ’‘ Resting the orzo is essential; it allows the pasta to finish absorbing the remaining liquid into a cohesive sauce.


🍽️ Complete the Meal

Crusty artisan bread Simple green salad with vinaigrette
🧊
Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this recipe?

Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Rohit Bothra
Recipe by

Rohit Bothra

Self-taught cook exploring global vegetarian cuisine from my Atlanta kitchen.

Learn more about me β†’
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