Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo
Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen
I absolutely adore how this Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo combines comfort with a burst of fresh flavors. The creamy texture balances perfectly with the sweetness of the tomatoes and the crunch of the veggies. Each bite not only satisfies my hunger but also delights my palate with vibrant colors and tastes. It's a simple dish that comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight dinner when I'm short on time yet craving something deliciously wholesome.
I've always been a fan of creamy pasta dishes, but I wanted to create something that packed a punch of nutrients as well. While developing this recipe, I experimented with different vegetables such as spinach and bell peppers to elevate the dish. The addition of garlic infused olive oil brings a depth of flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
One of the best tips I can share is to allow the orzo to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps the creamy sauce adhere better, ensuring every bite is decadently rich. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy with a hint of sweetness from the tomatoes
- Packed with colorful, nutritious veggies
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo:
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for a smooth experience!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo:
Cook the Orzo
In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in the vegetable broth and heavy cream. Allow to simmer for another 3-4 minutes. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and mix well. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve
Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful dish!
Enjoy your meal and feel free to share your experience!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a dash of red pepper flakes for heat!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use whole grain orzo?
Yes, whole grain orzo can be used for a healthier option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to experiment with vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms according to your preference.
→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.
→ Is there a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo
I absolutely adore how this Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo combines comfort with a burst of fresh flavors. The creamy texture balances perfectly with the sweetness of the tomatoes and the crunch of the veggies. Each bite not only satisfies my hunger but also delights my palate with vibrant colors and tastes. It's a simple dish that comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight dinner when I'm short on time yet craving something deliciously wholesome.
Created by: Vanessa Whitlock
Recipe Type: Simple Kitchen
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the vegetable broth and heavy cream. Allow to simmer for another 3-4 minutes. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and mix well. Season with salt and pepper.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful dish!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a dash of red pepper flakes for heat!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 10g