Description
Creamy Tomato Orzo is a quick and comforting pasta dish made with tender orzo simmered in a rich tomato and cream sauce. It’s perfect as a main course or a flavorful side, ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or plant-based cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or vegan alternative
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo and cook for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast it.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir in oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Cook for 1–2 more minutes until creamy and heated through.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter before serving.
- Add spinach or peas for a veggie boost.
- This dish thickens as it cools—add a splash of broth or water to loosen when reheating.
- Use gluten-free orzo if needed for dietary restrictions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg