Description
Creamy Tomato Orzo Delight
This creamy tomato orzo is the perfect fuss-free weeknight treat! Its rich, velvety texture comes together in just one pot, making it ideal for cozy evenings when you want something quick yet heartwarming. The magic lies in simple pantry ingredients that transform into a comforting, restaurant-worthy meal in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a vegan delight or just a dish that’s easy to customize, this tomato orzo is sure to impress!
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium shallot, finely chopped
2 large garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup (225 g) orzo
1 cup (250 ml) vegetable stock
½ cup (125 ml) coconut milk
2 cups (60 g) baby spinach
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté shallots until soft.
2. Add garlic, cook until fragrant.
3. Mix in tomato paste, then crushed tomatoes and seasoning.
4. Stir in orzo, add stock and coconut milk. Simmer until tender.
5. Fold in spinach, adjust seasoning, and serve!
Prep Time: 25 mins
Kcal: 228 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and soft, stirring frequently.
2. Build Flavor Base: Add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen its color and flavor, stirring constantly.
3. Create the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Orzo: Add the dry orzo, vegetable stock, and coconut milk to the skillet. Stir thoroughly. Bring back to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
5. Finish the Dish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the baby spinach until it wilts into the warm orzo. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy dish is versatile. For a heartier meal, top with grilled shrimp, shredded chicken, or crispy chickpeas. Garnish with fresh basil, a sprinkle of vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread or a simple arugula salad to complete the cozy dining experience.
How-to Summary
Sauté shallot and garlic, then cook tomato paste briefly. Add crushed tomatoes and seasoning. Stir in dry orzo, vegetable stock, and coconut milk. Simmer covered for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender. Finish by wilting in spinach and seasoning with salt and pepper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different milk instead of coconut milk? Yes. For a lighter version, use heavy cream, half-and-half, or unsweetened almond milk. Coconut milk provides richness and a subtle sweetness, but other milks will work.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of water or stock, as the orzo will continue to absorb liquid.
Is the orzo cooked directly in the sauce? Yes. This one-pot method allows the orzo to cook directly in the flavorful liquid, absorbing all the tastes and creating a creamy, cohesive dish.
Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely. Substitute the regular orzo with a certified gluten-free orzo or a similar small pasta like ditalini or small shell pasta.
What if my orzo is still hard after simmering? This means more liquid is needed. Add an extra 1/4 to 1/2 cup of vegetable stock or water, cover, and continue cooking for a few more minutes until tender.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the tomato paste cook-off: Not cooking the tomato paste for a minute or two can result in a raw, metallic flavor.
- Using sweetened coconut milk: Always use full-fat or light canned coconut milk, not the sweetened variety from a carton meant for beverages.
- Not stirring occasionally: Orzo can stick to the bottom of the pan. Stir every few minutes during simmering.
- Overcooking the spinach: Add the spinach off the heat. The residual warmth is enough to wilt it without turning it slimy.
Conclusion
This Creamy Tomato Orzo Delight proves that a deeply satisfying, restaurant-quality meal doesn’t require hours in the kitchen or a pile of dishes. With its velvety texture, rich tomato flavor, and customizable nature, it’s a reliable recipe that will become a cherished part of your weeknight rotation. Simple ingredients come together to create maximum comfort in minimal time. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a bowl of pure, cozy delight.