Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo

Name: Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 red onion, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Feta cheese, crumbled (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Favorites

I love making Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo for a cozy family meal. The combination of perfectly roasted vegetables and tender orzo creates a deliciously comforting dish that everyone enjoys. I often prepare this dish on a lazy Sunday afternoon, allowing the vibrant flavors to meld together. It’s the perfect way to use up any leftover vegetables from the week, making it both practical and delicious. Plus, it’s easy to serve as a side or a main dish, depending on my mood and what else is on the menu.

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:33:35.148Z

When I first tried roasting vegetables in the oven for this dish, I was amazed at how the heat brought out their natural sweetness. The method I use involves a simple toss with olive oil, salt, and herbs, which not only enhances their flavor but also gives them a beautiful caramelization. One of my favorite tips is to include a variety of vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions, to create a colorful and inviting presentation.

Another thing I've learned is to cook the orzo al dente before mixing it with the roasted veggies. This way, it absorbs the flavors while maintaining a perfect texture. I typically finish the dish with a sprinkle of feta cheese or fresh herbs, depending on what I have on hand, and it always turns out delightful!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Colorful and nutritious combination of roasted vegetables
Creamy orzo that soaks up all the delicious flavors
Versatile dish that can be served warm or cold

      

Roasting Vegetables to Perfection

The key to achieving perfectly roasted vegetables lies in the technique and timing. When preparing your vegetables, make sure they are cut into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. I find that a mix of colors not only makes the dish more visually appealing but also enhances the flavor profile with a variety of textures. Keep an eye on your vegetables; they should be tender and have a golden-brown edge without becoming mushy, typically around 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

For added depth of flavor, consider tossing the vegetables with minced garlic or a splash of balsamic vinegar before roasting. This can elevate the dish by infusing a sweet and tangy taste that complements the creamy orzo. Just make sure to adjust your roasting time if you add garlic; burnt garlic can impart an unpleasant bitterness.

Perfecting the Orzo

Cooking the orzo is straightforward, but there are a few details worth noting to maximize flavor and texture. When boiling water for the orzo, ensure it is adequately salted—think of it like the sea. This is vital as the orzo absorbs the salt while cooking, enhancing its overall flavor. Only boil the orzo for about 8-10 minutes, tasting it a minute or two before the package's suggested time for that 'al dente' texture.

After draining the orzo, don’t rinse it; the starches on the pasta help the sauce adhere later on. If you notice that it has stuck together a bit, a light drizzle of olive oil can help separate the grains without compromising the flavor. This technique is especially beneficial if you plan to serve the dish warm later rather than immediately.

Serving and Storing Tips

This roasted vegetable orzo can elegantly transition from a warm main dish to a refreshing cold salad, making it versatile. If serving as a warm entrée, I like to let it cool for just a few minutes after mixing the orzo with the roasted veggies. This allows the flavors to meld without overcooking the final dish. You can also top it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein if desired.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a little broth to revive its creaminess. For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to a month. When reheating from frozen, I suggest letting it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up for the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make a flavorful dish!

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 red onion, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients will create a vibrant and satisfying orzo dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the vegetables.

Prepare the vegetables

In a large bowl, toss together the diced bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Roast the vegetables

Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook the orzo

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Combine and serve

In a large serving bowl, mix the roasted vegetables with the cooked orzo. Top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables you prefer! Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving enhances the flavors even more.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have certain vegetables on hand, don’t hesitate to substitute with whatever you have in your fridge. Broccoli, carrots, or even asparagus can work beautifully in this orzo dish. Keep in mind, however, that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the moisture content and density of the vegetables used. For instance, firmer vegetables like carrots should be diced smaller and may need a few extra minutes of roasting.

For those avoiding gluten, consider using gluten-free orzo made from rice or quinoa. The cooking instructions will remain mostly the same, but be sure to check the package for timing as different brands may vary. Additionally, you can easily amp up the nutritional value by adding cooked chickpeas or white beans in place of orzo for a hearty, legume-packed meal.

Flavor Variations

To add an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating spices such as smoked paprika or chili flakes into the vegetable mix before roasting. These spices will bring a warm, smoky flavor that pairs especially well with the creamy feta. For a brighter taste, finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest after mixing everything together; it will brighten the flavors beautifully.

In addition to feta, other cheeses like goat cheese or grated Parmesan can be exciting alternatives. If you prefer non-dairy, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor while remaining vegan-friendly. Customizing the cheese based on what you have available can make this dish fit your dietary preferences while still being delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute with any small pasta shape, but cooking times may vary.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian as is. Just skip the optional feta cheese if you want it to be dairy-free.

→ What additional ingredients can I add?

You can add spinach, kale, or even chickpeas for extra protein and nutrition.