Description
One Pot Chickpea Orzo is a hearty and healthy dish that combines tender orzo pasta, protein-packed chickpeas, and vibrant vegetables, all cooked together in a single pot for easy cleanup. This quick and flavorful meal is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, offering a satisfying balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
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Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften.
- Add the minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
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Add the Chickpeas and Orzo:
- Stir in the drained chickpeas and orzo pasta, ensuring everything is well mixed.
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Simmer the Dish:
- Pour in the vegetable broth, and add the dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.
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Add Frozen Peas (Optional):
- In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas (if using) and stir them into the dish.
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Finish and Serve:
- Once the orzo is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice for a bright, zesty flavor.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese (if desired).
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Serve:
- Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious, one-pot chickpea orzo!
Notes
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
- Variation: Add in other veggies such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Tip: For extra protein, you can top the dish with grilled chicken or serve it with a side of your favorite protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0g