Baked Orzo with Artichokes is a delightful dish that brings flavor and comfort to any table. This recipe combines the unique taste of artichokes, the creamy texture of Halloumi, and the satisfying bite of orzo. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Whether you are looking for a vegetarian option or simply want to explore Mediterranean cuisine, this baked orzo recipe is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Orzo with Artichokes
This artichoke orzo bake is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. Here are a few reasons to love it:
- Quick preparation: With a total time of just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful ingredients: The combination of artichokes, tomatoes, and Halloumi creates a mouthwatering flavor.
- Nutritious: It’s a healthy baked orzo with artichokes that provides essential nutrients.
- Flexibility: You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- One-pot meal: It’s an easy baked orzo with artichokes that minimizes cleanup.
- Vegetarian-friendly: A perfect dish for those seeking a hearty vegetarian baked orzo dish.
Ingredients for Baked Orzo with Artichokes
Gather these items:
- 1 cup Dried orzo
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon Zest of lemon
- 1 cup Artichoke hearts
- 200 grams Halloumi cheese
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- to taste Salt
How to Make Baked Orzo with Artichokes Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Begin by boiling a pot of salted water, then add the dried orzo. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 3: Stir in the Aleppo pepper flakes and lemon zest for a burst of flavor. Let this cook for about 30 seconds to meld the tastes together.
- Step 4: Incorporate the halved artichoke hearts and cubed Halloumi cheese into the skillet. Gently toss and cook until the Halloumi is lightly golden and has started to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Step 5: Stir in the cooked orzo, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, and salt to taste. Mix until everything is well-coated and heated through; this should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 6: Drizzle the remaining teaspoon of olive oil over the dish before serving, giving it a beautiful sheen.
Pro Tips for the Best Baked Orzo with Artichokes
Keep these in mind:
- Use fresh artichokes for a more pronounced flavor.
- For a creamy baked orzo with artichokes, consider adding a splash of cream or milk.
- Make it a complete meal by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
Best Ways to Serve Baked Orzo with Artichokes
This dish pairs wonderfully with:
- Fresh garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
- A glass of white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
How to Store and Reheat Baked Orzo with Artichokes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven for about 15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) or until warmed through. This one-pot baked orzo recipe is perfect for meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Orzo with Artichokes
What is baked orzo?
Baked orzo refers to a dish where orzo pasta is cooked and then baked, often with various ingredients like vegetables, cheese, and sauces that enhance its flavor. This method creates a comforting and hearty meal.
Can I make Baked Orzo with Artichokes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it in the oven.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Orzo with Artichokes?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the orzo before baking, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Also, season adequately to enhance the flavors of the dish.
Variations of Baked Orzo with Artichokes You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with these variations:
- Add spinach for a nutritional boost in your baked orzo with spinach and artichokes.
- Substitute Halloumi with feta for a different cheesy experience.
- Mix in other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful and healthy baked orzo with vegetables.
For more delicious recipes, check out our Mediterranean Chickpea Salad or try Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil for a quick meal option.
For more information on the health benefits of artichokes, visit Healthline.
Print
Baked Orzo with Artichokes: 5 Flavorful Variations
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Orzo with Artichokes, Tomato, and Halloumi is a flavorful dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Dried orzo
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon Zest of lemon
- 1 cup Artichoke hearts
- 200 grams Halloumi cheese
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- to taste Salt
Instructions
- Begin by boiling a pot of salted water, then add the dried orzo. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant but not browned.
- Stir in the Aleppo pepper flakes and lemon zest for a burst of flavor. Let this cook for about 30 seconds to meld the tastes together.
- Incorporate the halved artichoke hearts and cubed halloumi cheese into the skillet. Gently toss and cook until the halloumi is lightly golden and has started to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked orzo, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, and salt to taste. Mix until everything is well-coated and heated through; this should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Drizzle the remaining teaspoon of olive oil over the dish before serving, giving it a beautiful sheen.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Leave a Reply