Description
Get ready to fall in love with this colorful and hearty Mediterranean Orzo and Beans. It’s the perfect one-pot wonder for anyone looking for a healthy, satisfying, and fast weeknight meal. Featuring creamy beans, vibrant veggies, tender orzo pasta, and a savory tomato broth, this easy dinner idea packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. Great for meatless Monday, quick lunch prep, or cozy dinner ideas. Whether you’re hunting for a vegetarian recipe, food ideas with pantry staples, or a warm and healthy snack, this dish covers it all.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup carrots, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups fresh spinach
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add sliced carrots and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add orzo and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add kidney beans, pinto beans, and cherry tomatoes. Simmer for 5–7 more minutes until orzo is tender.
6. Stir in fresh spinach and let wilt. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Notes
You can swap in white beans or chickpeas for a different texture.
Add zucchini or mushrooms for extra vegetables and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 11g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: one-pot meal, vegetarian dinner, orzo recipe, easy recipe, healthy dinner, quick dinner