Get ready to indulge in a culinary delight that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-soaked shores of Greece! Our Greek Baked Feta Orzo is a vibrant and comforting dish that combines the creamy richness of feta cheese with the hearty goodness of orzo pasta, all baked to perfection with juicy cherry tomatoes and briny olives. In just 40 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also perfect for impressing family and friends. Dive into this recipe and discover how to turn simple ingredients into a spectacular dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g orzo pasta
- 200g feta cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup olives, pitted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). This high temperature will help create a golden, crispy top and melt the feta beautifully.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook until al dente, typically about 8-9 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
- In a large baking dish, combine the cooked orzo with cherry tomatoes and pitted olives. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle dried oregano over the mixture.
- Break the feta cheese into large chunks and distribute evenly across the top of the orzo mixture. The cheese should sit slightly on top to create golden edges while baking.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Look for the feta to turn golden brown and the tomatoes to start blistering.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. If the dish seems dry, add a small splash of reserved pasta water to maintain moisture.
- Garnish with fresh torn basil leaves just before serving. The herbs will add a bright, fresh flavor to the rich, baked dish.
- Serve hot directly from the baking dish, ensuring each portion has a mix of orzo, cheese, tomatoes, and olives.
Tips
- Choose Quality Feta: Opt for a high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor. If possible, use block feta rather than crumbled for a creamier texture as it bakes.
- Don’t Skip the Oregano: Dried oregano is a classic herb in Greek cuisine. Its aromatic flavor is essential for bringing out the dish's Mediterranean essence.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the feta as it bakes. You want it to be golden brown but not burnt. Every oven is different, so start checking at the 15-minute mark.
- Customize with Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for an extra boost of nutrition and flavor.
- Use Reserved Pasta Water Wisely: If the dish looks dry after baking, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. This will keep your orzo creamy and delicious.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot out of the oven. The combination of textures and flavors is at its peak right after baking!
- Garnish for Freshness: Fresh basil adds a lovely aromatic touch. Consider adding a drizzle of good-quality olive oil before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
