Description
This easy vegan tomato orzo recipe is easy to whip up in one pan in about 20 minutes. Though made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s wonderfully flavourful and perfect for a plant-based meal or quick side dish served with any protein.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil (15 g)
- 2 small shallots, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- salt and pepper
- 1 cup dry orzo (200 g)
- 1 cup vegetable broth (250 mL)
- 1 28 oz can diced tomatoes, fire-roasted if possible
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, optional
- 1/2 cup canned coconut milk* (120 mL)
Instructions
- Heat Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large pan or pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
- Cook Shallot and Garlic: Add the shallot and garlic and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until tender and fragrant.
- Toast Orzo: Add the orzo and cook for 2 minutest to toast, stirring often until coated in the oil, shallot and garlic.
- Add Liquid and Seasoning: Add the broth, diced tomatoes, dried basil and oregano, and another pinch of salt and pepper and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently until the orzo is al dente and the sauce has thickened. Orzo has a tendency to stick to the bottom of the pot, so stir frequently while cooking to ensure it doesn’t burn and cooks evenly.
- Add Coconut Milk and Spinach: Stir in the coconut milk and spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes to wilt the spinach and heat through. Turn off the heat and let sit for another 1-2 minutes to further thicken.
- Season and Serve: Taste and season with more salt and pepper, if needed. Serve with parmesan cheese, fresh cracked black pepper, fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
Spinach and coconut milk can both be omitted if you prefer. Coconut milk adds a creamy finish and the spinach adds some nutrition and color.
*I used light coconut milk in this recipe. You can use full-fat for a creamier finish or light for reduced fat and calories.
Sodium content will depend on broth and canned tomato variety used. Use reduced sodium or no-salt added products if sodium content is a concern.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 217
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 769 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g