Description
This Chickpea Orzo is a bright, satisfying vegetarian pasta dish made with tender orzo, protein-rich chickpeas, fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs. It’s a healthy, easy weeknight recipe that’s perfect for meal prep or light lunches. Try this quick one-pan orzo recipe packed with flavor!
Ingredients
1 ½ cups orzo
1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
2 ½ cups water or vegetable broth
Instructions
1. In a large skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat with the oil. Toast it slightly for flavor, then add water or broth.
3. Simmer and cook the orzo, stirring often, until tender and most liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, lemon zest, and juice. Cook for a few more minutes to warm the chickpeas.
5. Turn off the heat and fold in parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm or chilled.
Notes
This dish can be served hot or cold.
Use vegetable broth for more flavor.
Add greens like spinach or arugula for an extra nutrient boost.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg