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Lemon Basil Chickpea Orzo with Feta Recipe

Lemon Basil Chickpea Orzo with Feta Recipe
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★★★★★

4.7 from 22 reviews

This vibrant Lemon Basil Chickpea Orzo with Feta is a light and refreshing dish perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Combining tender orzo pasta, protein-packed chickpeas, fresh baby spinach, and tangy lemon with creamy feta and fragrant basil, it offers a delicious Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s ideal for those seeking a wholesome vegetarian meal with a bright, zesty finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh Ingredients

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 cups baby spinach

Cheese

  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Other

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

  1. Cook Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the orzo and set aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
  3. Cook Chickpeas and Seasonings: Add the drained chickpeas, dried oregano, lemon zest, and a pinch of black pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the chickpeas to warm through.
  4. Add Orzo and Spinach: Stir in the cooked orzo, lemon juice, and the reserved pasta water into the skillet. Add the baby spinach and cook, stirring frequently, until the spinach has wilted and everything is well combined.
  5. Finish with Herbs and Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Gently fold in the chopped fresh basil, crumbled feta cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese until evenly distributed.
  6. Season and Serve: Taste the dish and add salt if needed. Serve the Lemon Basil Chickpea Orzo warm or chilled, as preferred.

Notes

  • Reserve some pasta water to help loosen the dish and create a light sauce without adding extra fat.
  • For a vegan version, omit the feta and Parmesan or substitute with vegan cheese alternatives.
  • Add cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra color and flavor.
  • Use fresh oregano if available for a more vibrant herb flavor.
  • This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon basil chickpea orzo, vegetarian orzo recipe, Mediterranean pasta salad, quick chickpea pasta, feta cheese orzo, healthy vegetarian meal

Find it online: https://maicook.com/lemon-basil-chickpea-orzo-with-feta-recipe/