Imagine a Mediterranean-inspired dish that comes together in just 30 minutes, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers maximum flavor in every single bite. This One Pan Creamy Lemon Feta Zucchini Orzo is not just a recipe—it's a culinary shortcut to a restaurant-quality meal that will make your taste buds dance and your dinner guests seriously impressed. With its perfect balance of tangy feta, bright lemon, and tender zucchini, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience that feels both luxurious and effortlessly simple.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat and add olive oil, allowing it to warm and shimmer.
- Add diced zucchini to the pan, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and develop light golden edges, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the orzo pasta and stir to coat with the olive oil, toasting the pasta for about 1-2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Add vegetable broth to the pan, stirring to combine with the orzo and zucchini, ensuring no pasta sticks to the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let the orzo simmer for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until the liquid is mostly absorbed and pasta is almost tender.
- Gently fold in halved cherry tomatoes and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove pan from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture, stirring to distribute the bright citrus flavor.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top, allowing the residual heat to slightly melt the cheese.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, gently folding to incorporate all ingredients.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and sauce to slightly thicken.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.
Tips
- Toast the orzo: Taking an extra minute to toast the pasta in olive oil before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor and prevents clumping.
- Use warm broth: Adding room temperature or slightly warmed broth helps the orzo cook more evenly and reduces overall cooking time.
- Stir occasionally: Prevent sticking by gently stirring the orzo every few minutes during cooking.
- Don't overcook: Remove from heat when orzo is still slightly al dente, as it will continue to absorb liquid while resting.
- Fresh is best: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and high-quality feta for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Optional garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate the dish's visual appeal and add a fresh layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
