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Herbed Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes & Olives Recipe

Herbed Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes & Olives Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 29 reviews

A flavorful and vibrant Herbed Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes & Olives, combining tender orzo pasta with fresh herbs, juicy cherry tomatoes, savory black olives, and a hint of lemon for a light and refreshing Mediterranean-inspired dish. Perfect as a side or a light main course, served warm or chilled.

Ingredients

Scale

Orzo and Vegetables

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/3 cup sliced black olives

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Other Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup dry orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8–10 minutes, until tender. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Sauté garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Cook tomatoes: Add 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften slightly and release their juices.
  4. Combine ingredients: Stir in the cooked orzo, 1/3 cup sliced black olives, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to taste. Toss everything thoroughly to combine all flavors.
  5. Heat through: Cook the mixture for another 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated evenly.
  6. Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese over the top if using. Serve warm or chilled as desired.

Notes

  • Can be served warm or chilled for a refreshing pasta salad.
  • Parmesan cheese is optional; omit for a dairy-free or vegan version.
  • Use gluten-free orzo to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Add a handful of spinach or arugula for extra greens.
  • Adjust salt and pepper according to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Herbed orzo, orzo pasta, cherry tomatoes, black olives, Mediterranean pasta salad, easy side dish, vegetarian pasta

Find it online: https://maicook.com/herbed-orzo-with-cherry-tomatoes-and-olives-recipe/