Baked Feta Orzo

Orzo wrapped in an ultra-creamy baked feta sauce – this truly is what easy dinners are made of! Baked Feta Orzo is a delightful dish that combines flavor and simplicity, making it perfect for weeknight meals, gatherings, or cozy family dinners. The creamy feta and fresh vegetables meld beautifully with the orzo, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but visually appealing. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together quickly with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of baked feta, fresh tomatoes, and asparagus creates a savory experience that delights the palate.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute or add vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a great option for meal prepping.
• One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe pan
• Pot for boiling water
• Sieve for draining orzo
• Fork for mashing feta

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe pan: This is crucial for baking the feta and vegetables together, ensuring even cooking.
• Pot for boiling water: Essential for cooking the orzo to the perfect al dente texture.
• Sieve for draining orzo: Helps in collecting excess starchy water which contributes to the creaminess of the dish.
• Fork for mashing feta: Easy to use for achieving that smooth consistency needed to mix with orzo.

Ingredients

Orzo wrapped in an ultra-creamy baked feta sauce – this truly is what easy dinners are made of!

For the Baked Feta Sauce

• 1x 200g/7oz block of Feta
• 3 tbsp Olive Oil
• 300g / 10oz Baby Plum or Cherry Tomatoes, (halved)
• 200g / 7oz Asparagus, (woody ends removed then sliced into 3 or 4 chunks)

For the Orzo Dish

• 2 cups / 400g uncooked Orzo
• 100g / 3.5oz Baby Spinach, (roughly diced)
• 1/2 small bunch of Fresh Basil, (finely diced (15g/0.5oz))
• 2 tbsp finely diced Fresh Chives
• 2 heaped tbsp / 2oz / 60g Mascarpone
• Salt & Black Pepper, (to taste)

How to Make Baked Feta Orzo

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200C/390F. This ensures your feta bakes perfectly.

Step 2: Bake the Feta

1. Add the feta to the centre of a large oven-safe pan and drizzle over 1 tbsp oil.
2. Place in the oven for about 8 minutes until soft.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

1. Remove from oven and scatter asparagus and tomatoes around the feta.
2. Drizzle with another 2 tbsp oil and sprinkle with black pepper.
3. Return everything to the oven for another 12-15 minutes until golden edges form on the feta.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

1. While baking, add uncooked orzo to a large pot of salted water.
2. Cook until al dente; drain using a sieve over a bowl to collect excess starchy water.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. Use a fork to mash baked feta until smooth.
2. Stir in drained orzo until well combined.
3. Add spinach and about half a cup of starchy water; mix until spinach wilts into a creamy sauce.

Step 6: Final Touches

1. Stir through basil, chives, and mascarpone; check seasoning and adjust if necessary.
2. Serve warm with additional black pepper if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Feta Orzo, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Baked Feta Orzo

Baked Feta Orzo is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple side salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette complements the creamy texture of the orzo.
• Caesar Salad: For a classic pairing, serve with a Caesar salad to add crunch and flavor.

Topped with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled Chicken Breast: Slice grilled chicken on top for added protein and flavor, making it a more filling dish.
• Lemon Herb Chicken: Marinated chicken adds bright flavors that enhance the dish’s Mediterranean character.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Crisp and cheesy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy orzo sauce.
• Herbed Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, herbed garlic breadsticks make for an excellent side that balances the meal.

Garnished with Extra Herbs

• Fresh Basil: Top with additional fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish.
• Chives or Parsley: Sprinkle some finely chopped chives or parsley to add color and freshness.

How to Perfect Baked Feta Orzo

To ensure your Baked Feta Orzo turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Starting with high-quality feta cheese and fresh vegetables enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Watch Cooking Times: Keep an eye on the feta as it bakes; it should be soft but not overcooked, which can affect its texture.
• Adjust Salt Carefully: The feta’s natural saltiness means you should adjust any additional salt cautiously to avoid overpowering flavors.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for variety and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Orzo

Pair your Baked Feta Orzo with these delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded meal.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition; drizzled with olive oil for extra flavor.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light, refreshing contrast to the rich orzo.
3. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini offers a smoky taste that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the dish.
4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts provide a crunchy texture and earthy flavor to balance the meal.
5. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and lemon dressing adds protein and freshness alongside the orzo.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with rice or grains enhance your table’s presentation while providing additional sustenance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your Baked Feta Orzo turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using stale ingredients – Always check the freshness of your feta and vegetables. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavors significantly.
• Not measuring orzo properly – Use a kitchen scale or measuring cup for accuracy. Over or under-measuring can lead to an unbalanced dish.
• Skipping the starchy water – The reserved starchy water is crucial for creating a creamy sauce. Don’t forget to add it gradually while mixing!
• Overcooking the asparagus – Asparagus should be fork-tender but still vibrant in color. Keep an eye on it during baking to avoid mushiness.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Taste before serving! Adjust salt and pepper as needed for a well-rounded flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Baked Feta Orzo in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Feta Orzo

• Place the cooled orzo in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label with the date for reference.

Reheating Baked Feta Orzo

• Oven – Preheat to 180C/350F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Transfer to a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Baked Feta Orzo that might help you.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

You can substitute feta with goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative for a similar creamy texture.

Can I customize my Baked Feta Orzo?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I make my Baked Feta Orzo more flavorful?

Consider adding garlic, lemon zest, or crushed red pepper flakes for added depth of flavor.

Is Baked Feta Orzo suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge and reheats nicely.

Final Thoughts

Baked Feta Orzo is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it according to your taste preferences by adding different vegetables or herbs. This dish is sure to impress at dinner parties or family meals. Give it a try and enjoy this creamy delight!