Description
This Mediterranean Orzo and Beans recipe is a colorful, hearty, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or healthy lunch idea. Loaded with orzo pasta, kidney and pinto beans, fresh spinach, and cherry tomatoes, it’s rich in flavor and plant-based protein. This easy dinner is naturally vegan and dairy-free, making it one of those perfect food ideas for anyone seeking a nutritious, comforting, and easy recipe. If you’re looking for dinner ideas that are as tasty as they are satisfying, this Mediterranean orzo dish is your next go-to!
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, thinly sliced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 cup orzo pasta
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups baby spinach
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of half a lemon (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook 3-4 minutes until translucent.
2. Add garlic, carrots, and bell pepper. Cook another 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in orzo pasta and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add kidney beans, pinto beans, cherry tomatoes, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender.
6. Stir in baby spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
7. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
8. Let sit for a few minutes off heat before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if using.
Notes
Toasting the orzo adds a rich, nutty flavor and keeps it from turning mushy.
Always add spinach at the end to retain its bright color and nutrients.
A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors beautifully.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-pot
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: quick dinner, easy dinner, one-pot meal, healthy dinner, vegan recipe, Mediterranean orzo, vegetarian meal, plant-based dinner