Craving a comforting, creamy, and incredibly easy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further than this **One Pot Creamy Tomato Herb Orzo**! This delightful dish effortlessly combines the rich flavors of tomatoes and aromatic herbs with tender orzo pasta, all cooked in a single pot for minimal cleanup. It’s a truly versatile recipe, perfect as a satisfying vegan side dish (simply omit the feta cheese) or as a flavorful base for adding your favorite proteins like grilled chicken, savory sausage, hearty chickpeas, or fresh seafood.

Orzo is one of those fantastic small pastas that shines in a multitude of dishes, from robust soups to refreshing summer salads. If you’re an orzo enthusiast, or just looking for a new quick pasta recipe, this creamy tomato herb orzo is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your cooking repertoire. Its tiny, rice-like shape allows it to cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You won’t find a long list of obscure ingredients here. We focus on fresh, accessible components that come together to create a profoundly flavorful and comforting dish. This makes it an excellent choice for beginner cooks or anyone seeking a delicious meal without culinary fuss.

Naturally vegan (before any optional cheese garnish), this recipe offers a wholesome and plant-forward option. For those who appreciate Greek cuisine, you’ll find this dish wonderfully reminiscent of Kritharaki, a traditional Greek tomato orzo often enjoyed for its rich taste and comforting texture. The creamy texture, achieved without heavy cream, is utterly irresistible and provides a truly heartwarming experience with every bite.

Beyond being a fantastic standalone dish, this One Pot Creamy Tomato Herb Orzo is wonderfully adaptable. Elevate it to a full meal by incorporating various proteins. Imagine it with perfectly grilled chicken, succulent shrimp, a smoky sausage, or for a plant-based boost, add some crispy roasted chickpeas or creamy white beans. It also makes an exceptional side dish, complementing meals like vibrant Chicken Shawarma Rice Bowls or tender Shish Taouk Chicken Thighs. My recent obsession with Greek food, perhaps inspired by an upcoming trip, has certainly influenced my appreciation for these bold and fresh flavors!

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Orzo Recipe

• **Effortless & Quick:** Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• **One-Pot Wonder:** Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
• **Creamy & Comforting:** Achieves a rich, creamy texture without heavy creams.
• **Highly Versatile:** Easily adaptable as a main dish with added protein or a delicious side.
• **Vegan-Friendly:** Naturally plant-based (just skip the optional feta).
• **Simple Ingredients:** Uses common pantry staples for ease of preparation.
• **Mediterranean Flavors:** A delightful taste of the Mediterranean, reminiscent of Greek Kritharaki.

Essential Recipe Ingredients

Here’s an overview of the simple yet flavorful ingredients we’re using to create this delicious One Pot Creamy Tomato Herb Orzo. For exact ingredient amounts and printable instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card below.

• Olive Oil: The foundation of flavor, used for sautéing the aromatics. Extra virgin olive oil will lend a richer taste.
• Onion & Garlic: These aromatic powerhouses build the base of our flavor. A sweet onion offers a milder taste, while fresh minced garlic is always preferred for its vibrant aroma. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but fresh is best.
• Spices (Oregano & Parsley): Dried oregano provides a classic Mediterranean herbaceous note, complementing the tomato perfectly. Dried parsley adds freshness and color. Feel free to use fresh herbs for an even brighter flavor profile—just remember to use a larger quantity (e.g., 1 tablespoon fresh for 1 teaspoon dried).
• Tomato Paste: This concentrated tomato flavor is key to achieving a deep, rich tomato base and contributes significantly to the creamy texture. Don’t skip it!
• Tomatoes (Diced): Canned diced tomatoes provide the bulk of the tomato flavor and texture. You can absolutely use crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce or whole peeled tomatoes (crushed by hand) for a rustic feel.
• Water or Vegetable Broth: The liquid medium in which the orzo cooks. Using vegetable broth instead of water will infuse even more depth of flavor into the dish, making it exceptionally savory.
• Orzo Pasta: The star of the show! Its small, rice-like shape ensures a quick cook time and makes it wonderful for absorbing all the delicious flavors. For dietary needs, whole wheat or gluten-free orzo varieties work perfectly as alternatives, though cooking times may vary slightly.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the entire dish, cutting through the richness and adding a lovely zesty finish.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste. Always adjust at the end for perfect balance.
• Garnishes (Fresh Parsley & Feta Cheese): Fresh chopped parsley adds a burst of vibrant color and a fresh herbal note. Crumbled feta cheese provides a tangy, salty contrast and adds to the creamy experience (omit for a fully vegan dish).

How to Make This One Pot Creamy Tomato Herb Orzo

Making this One Pot Creamy Tomato Herb Orzo is incredibly straightforward, requiring just a few simple steps. Follow these instructions for a perfectly cooked, flavorful dish every time.

Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic to Build Flavor. In a medium-sized pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté gently until it becomes soft and translucent, usually about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for developing a sweet, aromatic base. Next, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The kitchen will begin to fill with wonderful aromas!

Step 2: Create a Rich Tomato and Herb Base. Stir in the dried oregano, dried parsley, and concentrated tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, allowing the tomato paste to deepen in color and caramelize slightly—this enhances its flavor significantly. Then, add the can of diced tomatoes (undrained). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to soften, creating a robust sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo to Creamy Perfection. Pour in the water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor) and add the dry orzo pasta. Give everything a good stir to ensure the orzo is fully submerged. Season with a dash of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This timing is a guideline; always refer to the package directions for your specific brand of orzo to ensure it cooks perfectly al dente. After simmering, remove the lid, stir in the fresh lemon juice, and let it continue to simmer uncovered for 2 more minutes. The lemon juice adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich tomato. The starches from the orzo will naturally thicken the sauce, creating that desirable creamy consistency.

Step 4: Taste, Adjust, and Garnish. Taste the orzo and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired. For a final flourish, garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, homemade one-pot meal!

Serving Suggestions for Your Orzo

This One Pot Creamy Tomato Herb Orzo is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some ideas to make it a complete meal or a fantastic side:

• **As a Main Dish:** Enjoy it as is for a light and satisfying vegetarian or vegan meal.
• **Add Grilled Proteins:** Pair it with grilled chicken, steak, lamb, or pork tenderloin for a heartier meal. The vibrant flavors of the orzo complement grilled meats beautifully.
• **Seafood Delight:** Serve alongside pan-seared scallops, baked salmon, or grilled shrimp. The delicate flavors of seafood are enhanced by the creamy tomato and herb base.
• **Plant-Based Power-Up:** For an extra boost of plant-based protein, stir in a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas, cannellini beans, or even some lentils during the last few minutes of cooking.
• **With a Fresh Salad:** A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette makes an excellent counterpoint to the rich orzo.
• **Crusty Bread:** Don’t forget a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up all the delicious creamy sauce!

Variations & Customizations

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Get creative!

• **Spice It Up:** If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a generous dash of crushed red pepper flakes along with the other spices in Step 2.
• **Cheese, Please!:** While feta is a classic garnish, you can stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking for an extra cheesy dish. For a vegan option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor.
• **Add More Veggies:** Boost the nutritional content by stirring in fresh spinach or chopped kale during the last 2 minutes of simmering; they will wilt beautifully into the warm orzo. Other vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or sliced mushrooms can be sautéed with the onion in Step 1.
• **Make it Heartier:** For a richer dish, consider adding a splash of full-fat coconut milk (for a vegan option) or a touch of heavy cream at the very end of cooking.
• **Herb Swap:** Experiment with other dried or fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or dill for different flavor profiles.
• **Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** For an intensified tomato flavor, stir in a couple of tablespoons of chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained) along with the diced tomatoes.
• **Olives:** A handful of chopped Kalamata olives can add a briny, salty depth, especially if you enjoy Greek flavors.

Tips for Success

To ensure your One Pot Creamy Tomato Herb Orzo turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

• **Don’t Overcook the Orzo:** Orzo cooks quickly, and overcooked pasta can become mushy. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of simmering, and taste a piece to check for al dente doneness.
• **Use a Good Quality Pot:** A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven will distribute heat evenly and prevent sticking, which is important for one-pot recipes.
• **Adjust Seasoning:** Always taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end. The exact amount will depend on the saltiness of your broth and diced tomatoes.
• **Sautéing Aromatics:** Don’t rush the sautéing of the onion and garlic. This step builds the foundational flavor of the dish.
• **Tomato Paste is Key:** Allow the tomato paste to cook for a minute or two before adding liquids. This deepens its flavor and removes any raw taste.
• **Fresh Lemon Juice:** While bottled lemon juice can work, fresh lemon juice provides a much brighter and more vibrant flavor.

Storage and Reheating

This One Pot Creamy Tomato Herb Orzo is fantastic for meal prep or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

• **Storage:** Allow the orzo to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• **Reheating:** Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through. For stovetop reheating, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen the pasta and prevent it from drying out. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• **Freezing:** Orzo pasta can sometimes become a bit soft after freezing and thawing, but if you don’t mind a slightly different texture, it can be frozen. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some common questions about making this creamy tomato herb orzo.

• **What is Orzo?** Orzo is a type of short-cut pasta, shaped like a large grain of rice. Its name means “barley” in Italian, reflecting its appearance. It’s excellent in soups, salads, and as a side dish because of its small size and quick cooking time.
• **Can I make this gluten-free?** Yes, absolutely! Simply use your favorite brand of gluten-free orzo pasta. The cooking time might vary slightly, so follow the package instructions.
• **Can I use fresh tomatoes?** While canned diced tomatoes are convenient and provide a consistent flavor, you can use fresh, ripe tomatoes. You’ll need about 2-3 large tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and diced. You might also want to add a bit more tomato paste to intensify the flavor.
• **How can I make it even creamier?** For extra creaminess, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of dairy-free cream cheese (for vegan), a splash of full-fat coconut milk, or even a little mascarpone cheese at the very end of cooking. The starch released from the orzo already creates a natural creaminess, but these additions can elevate it further.
• **Is this dish spicy?** As written, this recipe is not spicy. However, you can easily add heat with red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper, as suggested in the variations section.
• **Can I add meat to this dish?** Yes, it’s highly encouraged! Cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken can be added along with the tomatoes in Step 2, or you can serve it with grilled proteins on the side.

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5 from 1 vote

One Pot Creamy Tomato Herb Orzo

By Julia Jolliff

Prep: 10 minutes mins

Cook: 30 minutes mins

Total: 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

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One Pot Creamy Tomato Herb Orzo is an easy side dish that comes together in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients 

• ▢ 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• ▢ 1/2 small sweet onion, chopped
• ▢ 3 cloves garlic , minced
• ▢ 1 teaspoon oregano
• ▢ 1 teaspoon dried parsley , {or 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley chopped}
• ▢ 1 Tablespoons tomato paste
• ▢ 1 can diced tomatoes , {you can use crushed or whole}
• ▢ 4 cups water
• ▢ 3/4 cup orzo
• ▢ 1/2 lemon, juiced
• ▢ Fresh parsley, chopped, to garnish
• ▢ Feta cheese, to garnish

Instructions 

• In a medium pot heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and continue to sauté for 2 minutes.
• Add the oregano, parsley, tomato paste, diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer for 10 minutes.
• Pour the water in and add the orzo and give it a good stir. Add a dash of salt and pepper, cover and simmer on low for 10 minutes {or following the cook time on the package of orzo}. Remove the lid, add the lemon juice and let it continue to simmer for 2 more minutes.
• Taste and adjust seasonings including salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and feta cheese.

Notes

• This recipe works great as a side dish but also as a base for adding grilled meats, chickpeas or seafood.
• You can feel free to add whatever spices and herbs you like. Sometimes I like it a bit spicy so I will add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper.
• Feel free to get creative with the garnishes. For example, sometimes I like to add kalamata olives.
• If you like your orzo extra cheesy stir in 1/4 of parmesan cheese at the end of cooking.
• Another great addition to this dish is spinach or kale-stir it in at the end of cooking and let it wilt.

Nutrition

Calories: 133kcal, Carbohydrates: 19g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 5g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 3g, Sodium: 38mg, Potassium: 229mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 3g, Vitamin A: 129IU, Vitamin C: 13mg, Calcium: 43mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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