Description
Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo
This comforting one-pot dish is a vegetarian twist on the popular “Marry Me” recipes that have taken the internet by storm. Inspired by flavors that make everyone fall in love with the cook, this recipe uses creamy garlic sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and chickpeas to create a hearty meal perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to switch it up! The name comes from the idea that this dish is so delicious it might just win you a proposal!
1 tbsp olive oil
1 shallot, minced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 (15-oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 handfuls baby spinach
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add shallot, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 3 minutes.
2. Add chickpeas, broth, orzo, tomatoes, and seasoning. Simmer until orzo is al dente.
3. Stir in cream, spinach, Parmesan, and basil. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 450 kcal per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect one-pot meal. First, gather all ingredients. In a large sauté pan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced shallot, garlic, and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Next, add the rinsed chickpeas, vegetable broth, uncooked orzo, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat slightly. Cook for 9-11 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid. Finally, reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, baby spinach, grated Parmesan, and chopped fresh basil. Cook for 2-3 more minutes until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy dish is a complete meal on its own. For a restaurant-style presentation, serve it in shallow bowls garnished with extra fresh basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and a crack of black pepper. A side of crusty garlic bread or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette perfectly balances the creaminess. For added protein, top with grilled chicken or shrimp. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
How-to Summary
Sauté aromatics, simmer orzo and chickpeas in broth with tomatoes, then finish with cream, spinach, cheese, and basil for a creamy, one-pot vegetarian pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegan? Yes. Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream, and use a vegan Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce, as the orzo will continue to absorb liquid.
Can I use a different pasta? Absolutely. Small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells work well. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is certified GF.
My sauce seems too thick. What can I do? Simply stir in additional vegetable broth or water, a few tablespoons at a time, until your desired consistency is reached.
Can I add other vegetables? Certainly. Sliced mushrooms, kale, or roasted red peppers are excellent additions. Sauté mushrooms with the initial aromatics, or stir in kale when you add the spinach.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the orzo, as it will become mushy—aim for al dente. Do not skip sautéing the shallot and garlic; this builds the foundational flavor. Ensure you use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, not dry, for the best texture and taste. Finally, add the Parmesan cheese off the heat or on very low heat to prevent it from clumping or becoming greasy.
Conclusion
This Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo recipe is a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can create a truly unforgettable and comforting meal. Its creamy texture, robust garlic and sun-dried tomato flavor, and hearty chickpeas make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this one-pot wonder is delicious enough to earn its charming name. Give it a try and see why it’s destined to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.