Name: Roasted Vegetable Orzo Comforting: 6 Simple Steps
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 red bell pepper (diced); 1 yellow bell pepper (diced); 1 zucchini (sliced into half-moons); 1 yellow squash (sliced into half-moons); 1 red onion (cut into wedges); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 0.5 tsp smoked paprika; 0.5 tsp salt; 0.25 tsp black pepper; 1.5 cups orzo pasta; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped); 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese (optional); 0.5 lemon juice; 1 tbsp olive oil; to taste salt and pepper

Roasted Vegetable Orzo Comforting has become my go-to dish for weeknight dinners. This colorful and flavorful pasta dish features roasted vegetables, orzo, fresh herbs, and optional Parmesan cheese, making it a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. With its Mediterranean flair, it is the perfect comfort food to warm your heart after a long day.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Vegetable Orzo Comforting

This dish is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

It’s a healthy roasted vegetable orzo meal that packs in nutrient-dense veggies.
Perfect for meal prep, this dish stays fresh and delicious for days.
It can easily be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese.
With only one pot needed, clean-up is a breeze.
This easy roasted vegetable orzo dish is quick to prepare, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish.
It’s versatile; you can customize it with seasonal vegetables for a unique twist.

Ingredients for Roasted Vegetable Orzo Comforting

Gather these items:

1 red bell pepper (diced)
1 yellow bell pepper (diced)
1 zucchini (sliced into half-moons)
1 yellow squash (sliced into half-moons)
1 red onion (cut into wedges)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp smoked paprika
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp black pepper
1.5 cups orzo pasta
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
0.25 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
0.5 lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
to taste salt and pepper

How to Make Roasted Vegetable Orzo Comforting Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Toss bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, and red onion with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Spread on baking sheet.
Step 3: Roast vegetables for 20–25 minutes until tender and caramelized, stirring halfway.
Step 4: Bring vegetable broth to a boil. Cook orzo until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain excess liquid if needed, then toss with olive oil.
Step 5: Combine roasted vegetables with cooked orzo.
Step 6: Add parsley, lemon juice, optional Parmesan, drizzle olive oil, and adjust seasoning.
Step 7: Serve warm or as a room-temperature pasta salad.

Pro Tips for the Best Roasted Vegetable Orzo Comforting

Keep these in mind:

If you want a creamier texture, add a splash of cream or a vegan alternative.
For added flavor, consider using roasted garlic or fresh herbs.
Use seasonal vegetables for a fresher taste that enhances the overall flavor.

Roasted Vegetable Orzo Comforting: 6 Simple Steps - Roasted Vegetable Orzo Comforting - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Roasted Vegetable Orzo Comforting

Here are some serving ideas:

Serve it warm as a main dish alongside crusty bread.
This dish can also be enjoyed as a roasted vegetable orzo salad when chilled.
Top with extra herbs or a dollop of pesto for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Roasted Vegetable Orzo Comforting

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. This makes for an excellent roasted vegetable orzo for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roasted Vegetable Orzo Comforting

What is roasted vegetable orzo?

Roasted vegetable orzo is a delightful pasta dish that combines orzo with a variety of roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, and seasonings, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.

Can I make roasted vegetable orzo ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve, making it perfect for easy weeknight dinners.

How do I avoid common mistakes with roasted vegetable orzo?

Ensure that your vegetables are cut uniformly for even cooking, and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet to achieve that perfect caramelization.

Variations of Roasted Vegetable Orzo Comforting You Can Try

There are countless ways to customize this dish:

For a protein boost, add chickpeas or grilled chicken.
Try different herbs like basil or thyme to suit your taste.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute orzo with a gluten-free pasta.

For more delicious recipes, check out these small batch apple pumpkin muffins or chicken sausage broccoli orzo. You can also explore creamy dressings to complement your meals.

For more information on the health benefits of vegetables, visit Healthline.