One Pan Tomato Spinach Orzo Recipe
A flavorful, one-pan tomato spinach orzo dish that combines tender orzo pasta with savory garlic, shallots, fire-roasted tomatoes, and fresh baby spinach, finished with a creamy touch of coconut milk. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a quick, comforting meal.
- Author: Elena
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Base Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil (15 g)
- 2 small shallots (minced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Main Ingredients
- 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)
Finishing Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup canned coconut milk (120 mL)
- Heat Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat to prepare the base for sautéing.
- Cook Shallot and Garlic: Add the minced shallots and garlic to the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often until they are tender and fragrant, forming the aromatic foundation.
- Toast Orzo: Add the dry orzo to the pan and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to toast the orzo and coat it evenly with the oil, shallot, and garlic mixture.
- Add Liquid and Seasoning: Pour in the vegetable broth and the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices. Add dried basil, oregano, and optional red pepper flakes, plus another pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently until the orzo is al dente and the sauce thickens. Stirring often prevents the orzo from sticking and burning.
- Add Coconut Milk and Spinach: Stir in the coconut milk and fresh baby spinach. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the dish is heated through. Turn off the heat and let the orzo sit for 1-2 minutes to further thicken the sauce.
- Season and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Serve with optional parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
Notes
- Stir frequently during simmering to prevent the orzo from sticking or burning.
- Fire-roasted diced tomatoes enhance the depth of flavor but regular diced tomatoes work well too.
- Red pepper flakes are optional, add according to your spice preference.
- For a richer flavor, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if not vegan.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently on stove or microwave.
Keywords: one pan, tomato, spinach, orzo, easy dinner, vegan pasta, quick meal, stovetop recipe, Mediterranean