Imagine a vibrant, sun-kissed dish that bursts with Mediterranean flavors and nutritional goodness - our Lemony Orzo with Kale and Tomatoes is about to become your new obsession! This quick and easy recipe combines the delicate texture of orzo pasta with the hearty crunch of kale and the sweet burst of cherry tomatoes, all brightened by a tangy lemon dressing. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or a stunning side dish that'll impress at your next gathering, this Italian-inspired recipe is your ticket to culinary delight.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Pour the orzo pasta into the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the orzo is cooking, wash the kale thoroughly and remove the tough stems. Chop the kale into bite-sized pieces.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes, ensuring they are clean and dry.
- When the orzo is cooked, drain in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, chopped kale, and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the mixture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined and the kale begins to slightly wilt from the warm orzo.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more lemon juice or olive oil as desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature as a light meal or side dish.
Tips
- Salt Your Pasta Water: Always add salt to boiling water before cooking orzo to enhance its flavor from the inside out.
- Al Dente is Key: Watch your orzo carefully and cook just until tender - overcooking can make it mushy.
- Massage Your Kale: Gently massage the chopped kale with a bit of olive oil to soften its texture and reduce bitterness.
- Use Fresh Citrus: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a massive difference compared to bottled juice.
- Temperature Matters: This dish is versatile - serve it warm for a comforting meal or chilled as a refreshing summer salad.
- Customize Your Protein: Add grilled chicken, feta cheese, or chickpeas to make it a more substantial meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
