Orzo, a small, grain-like pasta, is a staple ingredient in many Mediterranean cuisines. When combined with classic Greek flavors like lemon, herbs, feta, and olives, it’s no wonder why orzo has become a favorite among home cooks. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious Greek orzo recipes that are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. From hearty salads to creamy pasta dishes, these recipes showcase the versatility of orzo and the bold flavors of Greece.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration for a Mediterranean-themed dinner party or simply want to add some excitement to your meal routine, these flavorful Greek orzo recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Greek Orzo Salad with Lemon and Herbs
A refreshing summer salad that combines the nutty flavor of orzo with the brightness of lemon and the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked orzo
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, mixed greens, parsley, mint, feta cheese, and cherry tomatoes.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Creamy Greek Orzo with Spinach and Feta
This hearty, comforting dish combines the creamy richness of feta cheese with the nutty flavor of orzo and the brightness of fresh spinach. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 4 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Drain cooked orzo and stir into the skillet with spinach mixture.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together feta cheese and heavy cream.
7. Pour creamy feta mixture over orzo and spinach. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Orzo with Roasted Vegetables
A hearty and flavorful side dish that combines the nutty taste of orzo with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables, all tied together with a drizzle of tangy feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a large bowl, toss bell pepper, zucchini, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. Fluff cooked orzo with a fork and stir in roasted vegetables.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Garlic Greek Orzo with Shrimp
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Greece with the sweetness of shrimp, all wrapped up in a creamy lemon garlic orzo dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a large pot. Add orzo and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
2. In a separate pan, heat oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Stir lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper into the cooked orzo. Combine with the shrimp mixture.
4. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Orzo Stuffed Peppers
Greek Orzo Stuffed Peppers Recipe: A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers!
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the cooked orzo mixture, followed by the chopped parsley and dill.
6. Top each pepper with crumbled feta cheese.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
One-Pot Greek Orzo with Chicken
This hearty one-pot dish combines flavorful chicken, tender orzo pasta, and a medley of Mediterranean spices for a satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the orzo pasta, chicken broth, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until orzo is tender and liquid has been absorbed.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Orzo with Kalamata Olives and Artichokes
This hearty orzo dish combines the flavors of Greece with the sweetness of artichokes and the brininess of kalamata olives. Perfect as a side or main course, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 3 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring orzo and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add artichoke hearts, olives, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Fluff cooked orzo with a fork and add it to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Greek Orzo Pasta Bake
A flavorful and satisfying one-dish meal that combines the comforts of pasta with the bright, bold flavors of Greece.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup diced Kalamata olives
– 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together warmed chicken broth and olive oil. Add cooked orzo, feta cheese, parsley, and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in diced olives and artichoke hearts.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional feta cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Orzo with Lamb and Tzatziki
A flavorful and refreshing one-pot dish that combines the comforting warmth of orzo with the tender juiciness of lamb, all wrapped up with a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 pounds boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup tzatziki sauce (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, and oregano; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cooked orzo, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve hot, topped with tzatziki sauce and chopped parsley if desired.
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Greek Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil
This hearty orzo dish is infused with the bright flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of Mediterranean spice. Perfect as a side or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring orzo and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until al dente.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and basil to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Fluff cooked orzo with a fork. Combine with tomato mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Orzo with Chickpeas and Cucumber
This refreshing summer side dish combines the nutty flavor of orzo pasta with the creaminess of chickpeas, the crunch of cucumber, and a hint of Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions using boiling water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the cooked orzo to the bowl and toss until combined with the chickpea mixture.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Orzo with Eggplant and Mint
This Mediterranean-inspired orzo dish combines the flavors of roasted eggplant, fresh mint, and tangy feta cheese for a light and satisfying side dish perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant slices with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, roasted eggplant, chopped mint, crumbled feta cheese, and lemon juice. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Orzo with Lemon and Dill
This classic Greek recipe combines the nutty flavor of orzo with the brightness of lemon and the freshness of dill, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the orzo and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the flavors are well combined.
4. Fluff the cooked orzo with a fork to separate the grains. Add the orzo to the skillet and stir to combine with the lemon-dill mixture.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Orzo with Feta and Pine Nuts
This classic Greek dish combines nutty orzo pasta with crumbly feta cheese, toasted pine nuts, and a hint of lemon. Perfect as a side or main course, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the orzo and water to a boil in a large saucepan. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in feta cheese, pine nuts, and lemon juice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.
4. Fluff the cooked orzo with a fork and stir in the feta-pine nut mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Orzo with Sausage and Bell Peppers
This hearty one-pot dish combines the flavors of Greece with the comfort of sausage and bell peppers. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s quick to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 1 pound Greek sausage (such as loukaniko), sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add the cooked orzo, sausage, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Orzo with Zucchini and Parmesan
This Greek-inspired orzo dish is a perfect side to any meal, featuring the flavors of zucchini, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. With its creamy sauce and nutty orzo, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add zucchini and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked orzo and zucchini mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Orzo with Lemon Butter Sauce
A classic Greek dish gets a bright and citrusy twist with this simple recipe. Perfect as a side or light meal, this orzo is infused with the flavors of Greece and a tangy lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in lemon juice, butter, salt, and pepper. Bring sauce to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Add cooked orzo to the skillet and toss with lemon butter sauce until well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Orzo with Tomatoes and Fresh Oregano
This hearty side dish combines the nutty flavor of orzo with the brightness of fresh tomatoes and oregano, perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the orzo and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the chopped oregano and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Once the orzo is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to savor the flavors of Greece with these delicious orzo recipes! From classic combinations like lemon and herbs, to creamy spinach and feta, to seafood-inspired dishes like shrimp with lemon garlic, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at stuffed peppers, one-pot chicken, or pasta bakes with kalamata olives and artichokes. These 18 mouth-watering recipes showcase the versatility of Greek cuisine and will transport you to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast.
