Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo

Name: Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 red onion, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Balanced Cooking

I love making roasted vegetable orzo on Sunday afternoons. It's the perfect dish to use up whatever vegetables I have in the fridge, and the flavors meld beautifully in the oven. The combination of tender orzo, sweet roasted veggies, and aromatic herbs creates a comforting meal that we can enjoy throughout the week. It's a fantastic dish that feels both satisfying and wholesome, making it ideal for a family gathering or a quiet dinner at home. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—a true winner in my book!

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:49:35.000Z

Roasting vegetables is my secret to enhancing their natural sweetness and flavor. I can still remember the first time I tried this method; the smells wafting through the kitchen were simply irresistible! I regularly experiment with different vegetable combinations and spices to keep the dish fresh and exciting. Imagine zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes tossed in olive oil and seasoned with herbs—it’s a flavor explosion!

Moreover, my favorite tip for making this dish sing is to add a sprinkle of fresh lemon juice just before serving. It brightens the entire meal and elevates the flavors to new heights. Each bite tastes vibrant and fresh, reminding me of sunny Sunday afternoons.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A hearty, nutritious dish packed with colorful vegetables
The orzo provides a comforting, chewy texture
Perfectly customizable with seasonal vegetables

Roasting Techniques

Roasting is an incredibly effective cooking method for bringing out the natural sweetness and flavors of vegetables. When you spread the diced vegetables on a baking sheet, ensure they are not overcrowded, as this can lead to steaming rather than roasting. I recommend using a large pan and arranging the pieces in a single layer for optimal caramelization. Keep an eye on them for about 15-20 minutes until they're nicely golden around the edges and fork-tender.

For added depth, consider incorporating different herbs or spices into your vegetable mix. Thyme or rosemary can enhance the dish's aroma, while a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile with a touch of heat. Feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables you prefer; for example, asparagus or carrots would also work beautifully.

Orzo Cooking Tips

When cooking orzo, it's essential to use a pot of well-salted water to ensure the pasta absorbs flavor as it cooks. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the orzo and give it a gentle stir to prevent sticking. Cooking it until al dente is key; following package instructions usually takes around 8-10 minutes. This texture will hold up well when mixed with the roasted vegetables and prevent it from becoming mushy.

For a creamier consistency, consider reserving a bit of the starchy pasta cooking water before draining. A splash of this water can be added to the final mix, helping to bind the orzo and vegetables together while enhancing the overall dish without additional calories.

Serving and Storing

This roasted vegetable orzo dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can serve it warm straight from the mixing bowl, or let it cool and enjoy it cold as a refreshing pasta salad. Toss in some feta cheese or grilled chicken for added protein, making it an even heartier meal. Pair it with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for a complete dining experience.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave, stirring periodically to ensure even warming. For longer storage, this dish can be frozen, though it's best to leave out the fresh basil, which is best added right before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare the roasted vegetable orzo:

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red onion, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Sunday roasted vegetable orzo:

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.

Roast the Vegetables

Spread the seasoned vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook the Orzo

While the vegetables are roasting, bring a saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Combine and Serve

Once the vegetables are roasted, combine them with the cooked orzo in a large serving bowl. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and toss gently. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Pro Tips

For a heartier version, consider adding cooked chicken or chickpeas to the dish. Also, any leftover roasted vegetables can be refrigerated and used in salads or wraps.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe calls for specific vegetables, you can easily customize it based on what you have on hand. Spinach or kale can be added towards the end of the roasting process to wilt them slightly, adding a nice pop of color and nutrition. Additionally, if you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider substituting the orzo with quinoa or a gluten-free pasta variety, which will still provide a similar texture and taste.

If you're not a fan of red onion, shallots can be used for a milder effect, or even garlic cloves could work beautifully roasted alongside the vegetables. Remember, the key is to use vegetables that will caramelize well, so root vegetables like carrots or parsnips can also be incorporated for added sweetness.

Flavor Enhancements

For those who enjoy a bit of tang, consider adding a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of parmesan right before serving. This will provide a lovely contrast to the roasted sweetness of the vegetables, making the flavors pop. Citrus zests, like lemon or lime, can also add a fresh brightness that complements the hearty dish beautifully.

If you want to kick up the flavor a notch, marinating the diced vegetables in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs for about 30 minutes before roasting can deepen the taste profile significantly. Experimenting with flavors will make this dish uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as carrots, broccoli, or eggplant.

→ Is orzo gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat, but there are gluten-free orzo options available made from rice or corn.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the roasted vegetables and orzo ahead of time and store them separately. Just combine and reheat when ready to serve.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover roasted vegetable orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.