Description
This vibrant and comforting Baked Orzo With Veggies recipe combines a medley of fresh vegetables, hearty beans, and creamy coconut milk baked to perfection with gluten-free orzo. It’s a wholesome one-dish meal that’s both vegan and packed with nutritious ingredients, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Beans
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 2 cups diced vegetables (zucchini, broccoli, bell pepper, eggplant, cauliflower, or a mixture)
- 15 oz chickpeas, white beans, or navy beans (1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes
- ¼ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups baby spinach, chopped
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2¾ cups vegetable broth
- ½ cup coconut milk
Grains and Garnish
- 16 oz orzo, dry (gluten-free if needed)
- Vegan feta, to garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400℉ (204℃) to prepare for baking the vegetables and orzo.
- Prepare the Vegetable Mixture: In a 9 x 5-inch casserole dish, combine the chopped red onion, diced vegetables of your choice, drained chickpeas or beans, cherry tomatoes, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, salt, tomato paste, and ¼ cup of vegetable broth. Mix everything gently to combine.
- Bake the Vegetables: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 minutes. This step softens the vegetables and blends the flavors beautifully.
- Add Orzo and Liquids: Remove the dish from the oven. Add the remaining vegetable broth, coconut milk, and dry orzo to the vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cover and Continue Baking: Cover the casserole dish with tinfoil or a lid to trap steam. Return it to the oven and bake for another 15 to 25 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and fully cooked.
- Finish with Spinach: Once cooked, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Stir in the chopped fresh baby spinach until it wilts slightly from the heat.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the baked orzo hot, optionally garnishing with vegan feta cheese to add a creamy, tangy contrast.
Notes
- You can use any mixture of diced vegetables you prefer or have on hand, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or cauliflower.
- Using gluten-free orzo makes this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Be sure to cover the dish tightly during the second baking phase to ensure the orzo cooks evenly and absorbs the liquid.
- Adding the spinach at the end keeps its color vibrant and texture fresh.
- For extra protein, consider adding a topping of toasted nuts or seeds when serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
