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Baked Orzo with Roast Mediterranean Vegetables

A vibrant and comforting dish featuring roasted vegetables and creamy orzo, perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 200 grams orzo Tiny, rice-shaped pasta perfect for soaking up flavors.
  • 2 pieces bell peppers (any color) Add sweetness and crunch.
  • 2 pieces courgettes or zucchini (about 300g) Provides delightful texture.
  • 2 pieces red onions Adds depth to flavor when roasted.
  • 200 grams cherry tomatoes Juicy and bursting with flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic Enhances flavor.
  • 400 ml chicken or vegetable stock Adds moisture and flavor.
  • 2 tbsp tomato puree Intensifies the taste.
  • 1 tsp dried basil Provides an authentic Mediterranean touch.
  • 1 tsp dried oregano Compliments other flavors.
  • 1 piece lemon, juiced Adds refreshing brightness.
  • 1 bunch fresh parsley (chopped) Adds color and freshness.
  • to taste salt and pepper Essential for enhancing flavors.
  • 3 tbsp olive oil Adds smooth, luxurious finish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 220℃ (or 200℃ for fan-assisted ovens, or 425℉).
  2. Cut the courgettes, bell peppers, and red onions into 1-inch pieces.
  3. Peel the garlic cloves and crush them gently with the edge of a knife.
  4. In a large roasting tin, add the chopped vegetables, crushed garlic, and cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  5. Drizzle olive oil over vegetables and mix thoroughly.
Cooking
  1. Roast the vegetables in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until lightly golden and tender.
  2. While vegetables roast, mix stock cube and tomato puree with 400ml boiling water until dissolved.
  3. After roasting, stir orzo into the roasting tin and pour the prepared stock over the mixture.
  4. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through cooking.
  5. Once the orzo is tender and the stock absorbed, stir in juice of one lemon and chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan or feta cheese before serving. You can enhance the dish further with a pinch of red pepper flakes or seasonal vegetables.