This orzo pasta with zucchini and tomato recipe offers a delightful blend of simple yet flavorful ingredients. The dish provides an unique fusion of nutty orzo pasta, the crunch of fresh zucchini, and acidity of juicy tomatoes, fused together with the aroma of garlic and the richness of parmesan or pecorino cheese.
Photos of Orzo with Zucchini and Tomato Recipe
Most of these ingredients are fairly common, but you may need to make a trip to the supermarket for the orzo pasta if it's not a staple in your pantry. Orzo, meaning 'barley' in Italian due to its shape, is a type of short-cut pasta, shaped like a large grain of rice. Parmesan or Pecorino cheese are both sharp, hard cheeses, with Pecorino being slightly saltier.
Ingredients for Orzo Pasta with Zucchini and Tomato
Orzo pasta: A type of short-cut pasta, shaped like a large grain of rice.
Zucchini: A summer squash that adds a mild, crisp texture.
Tomato: Adds a juicy acidity to the dish.
Garlic cloves: To infuse the dish with aromatic flavor.
Extra virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing and adds a rich, fruity flavor.
Kosher salt and fresh pepper: To season the dish.
Parmesan or Pecorino: A hard, aged cheese that adds a sharp, savory flavor.
One reader, Fina Pettigrew says:
This orzo pasta with zucchini and tomato recipe is a game-changer! The combination of fresh ingredients and the perfect balance of flavors make it a delightful dish. The orzo is cooked to perfection, and the zucchini and tomato add a refreshing touch. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a light and flavorful meal.
Techniques Required for Making Orzo Pasta With Zucchini and Tomato
How to cook orzo pasta: Boil the orzo pasta in a large pot of salted water until it is al dente. Then, drain the orzo in a colander and reserve about ½ cup of the cooking liquid before draining.
How to sauté zucchini and tomatoes: In a pot, heat the olive oil and sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the zucchini and tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until tender.
How to combine the orzo and vegetables: Add the cooked orzo to the pot with the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine. Add some of the reserved cooking liquid as needed so the pasta isn't dry.
How to finish the dish with cheese: Once the orzo and vegetables are combined, add the freshly grated cheese and stir until it is well incorporated into the dish.
How To Make Orzo with Zucchini and Tomato
Like any other pasta, orzo gives a delicious dish when cooked with zucchini and tomato. For the best experience, sprinkle with grated cheese on top!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 5ozorzo pasta,uncooked
- ½large zucchini,¼-inch dice
- 1small plum or campari tomato,diced
- 2garlic cloves,smashed and finely chopped
- 1tbspextra virgin olive oil
- kosher salt and fresh pepper,to taste
- ¼;
Instructions
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Cook pasta in large pot of salted water as directed for al dente.
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Reserve about ½ cup of liquid before draining. Drain orzo in a colander and add the oil to the pot.
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Saute garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the zucchini and tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and mix well. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until tender.
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Add the cooked orzo and stir to combine all. Add some of the reserved liquid as needed so pasta isn’t dry.
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Add freshly grated cheese and stir.
Nutrition
- Calories: 209.70kcal
- Fat: 6.48g
- Saturated Fat: 2.13g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.23g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.66g
- Carbohydrates: 29.16g
- Fiber: 1.79g
- Sugar: 2.35g
- Protein: 8.66g
- Cholesterol: 6.32mg
- Sodium: 236.99mg
- Calcium: 129.27mg
- Potassium: 230.63mg
- Iron: 0.79mg
- Vitamin A: 28.24µg
- Vitamin C: 9.29mg
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Technique Tip for Perfecting Orzo Pasta With Zucchini and Tomato
When sautéing the zucchini and tomato, make sure to cut them into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and a better texture in your final dish. Also, remember to add the garlic after the oil is heated to prevent it from burning and becoming bitter. Lastly, adding the pasta water back into the orzo not only prevents it from drying out but also helps in creating a light sauce that coats every piece of pasta, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Orzo Pasta Dish
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Opt for one-pot recipes to minimize cleanup and save time.
Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and store leftovers for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
Efficient multitasking: While the pasta is cooking, prep the vegetables to make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Quick cooking methods: Utilize quick cooking methods such as sautéing or steaming to reduce overall cooking time.
Substitute Ingredients For Orzo with Zucchini and Tomato Recipe
orzo pasta - Substitute with risotto: Risotto has a similar texture and can be used as a delicious alternative in this recipe.
zucchini - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash has a similar mild flavor and texture, making it a great substitute for zucchini in this dish.
plum or campari tomato - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes can provide a similar sweet and juicy flavor, and their smaller size makes them a convenient substitute in this recipe.
garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor compared to garlic, adding a unique twist to the dish.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for extra virgin olive oil in this recipe.
parmesan or pecorino - Substitute with grana padano: Grana Padano cheese has a similar nutty and savory flavor, making it a great substitute for parmesan or pecorino in this recipe.
Best Way to Present Orzo Pasta With Zucchini and Tomato
- Elevate the plating: Arrange the orzo pasta with precision and attention to detail, creating a visually stunning presentation on the plate.
- Incorporate microgreens: Add a touch of elegance and freshness by garnishing the dish with delicate microgreens for a pop of color and flavor.
- Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of minimalism by allowing the dish to breathe on the plate, creating a visually appealing and balanced composition.
- Consider the plate shape and color: Choose a plate that complements the vibrant colors of the zucchini and tomato, enhancing the overall visual impact of the dish.
- Add a finishing drizzle: Just before serving, delicately drizzle a swirl of high-quality balsamic glaze around the plate for a touch of sophistication and flavor enhancement.
- Garnish with edible flowers: Elevate the presentation by incorporating edible flowers such as nasturtiums or borage, adding a touch of whimsy and elegance to the dish.
- Use precision and symmetry: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring a harmonious and visually appealing arrangement that showcases culinary finesse.
- Consider the overall sensory experience: Ensure that the presentation not only looks exquisite but also enhances the aroma and taste of the orzo pasta dish, creating a multi-sensory dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making This Orzo Pasta Recipe
- Large pot: A large pot is essential for boiling the orzo pasta.
- Colander: A colander is used to drain the cooked orzo pasta.
- Sauté pan: A sauté pan is used to cook the zucchini and tomatoes with the garlic and oil.
- Grater: A grater is used to grate the parmesan or pecorino cheese for the dish.
How to Store and Freeze Orzo Pasta With Zucchini and Tomato
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for orzo pasta with zucchini and tomato recipe:
Refrigerating: Transfer the cooled orzo pasta to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The zucchini and tomato may release some liquid over time, so you can drain it before reheating if desired.
Freezing:
- Allow the orzo pasta to cool completely before freezing.
- Divide the pasta into individual portions or freeze it all together in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
- If using a container, make sure to leave some headspace for expansion during freezing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating from frozen:
- Thaw the frozen orzo pasta in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of water, olive oil, or tomato sauce to help moisten it.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, and serve hot with freshly grated parmesan or pecorino cheese.
How to Reheat Leftover Orzo Pasta With Zucchini and Tomato
Reheat the leftover orzo pasta in a microwave-safe bowl, covered with a damp paper towel, for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Stir the pasta halfway through to ensure even heating. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of water or olive oil before reheating.
For a stovetop method, place the leftover orzo pasta in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of water or olive oil to the pan to prevent the pasta from sticking. Stir the pasta frequently until it's heated through, about 3-5 minutes. If the pasta seems dry, add more liquid as needed.
To reheat the orzo pasta in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the pasta is heated through. Remove the foil for the last few minutes of baking to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the top to crisp slightly.
If you have leftover zucchini and tomato sauce, reheat it separately in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Once the sauce is warm, add the reheated orzo pasta to the pan and toss to combine. This method helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy and ensures the flavors remain vibrant.
For a quick and easy lunch, enjoy the leftover orzo pasta cold as a refreshing pasta salad. Toss the cold pasta with some fresh vegetables, such as diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, or sliced bell peppers. Drizzle with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for added flavor.
Random Fact About Orzo Pasta With Zucchini and Tomato
Orzo pasta is a type of pasta that is shaped like rice. It is commonly used in Italian and Mediterranean cuisines and is often used in soups, salads, or as a base for a main dish.
Is Making Orzo Pasta With Zucchini and Tomato Economical for Home Cooking?
This orzo pasta with zucchini and tomato recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option. The use of seasonal zucchini and tomatoes further enhances its cost-effectiveness. With the addition of parmesan or pecorino cheese, the dish gains depth and flavor without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12, making it an economical yet delicious choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is This Orzo Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This orzo pasta recipe with zucchini and tomato is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of carbohydrates, vegetables, and a small amount of healthy fat. The inclusion of zucchini and tomato provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while the garlic adds flavor and potential health benefits. The use of extra virgin olive oil is a healthier choice compared to other cooking oils due to its monounsaturated fat content and antioxidant properties. Additionally, the recipe calls for a moderate portion of pasta, which can help with portion control.
However, there are a few ways to make this recipe even healthier:
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish, such as adding more zucchini, tomatoes, or other nutrient-dense options like spinach or bell peppers
- Use whole wheat orzo pasta instead of regular orzo to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy
- Reduce the amount of cheese used or opt for a lower-fat cheese to decrease the overall fat and calorie content
- Consider adding a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to make the meal more balanced and satisfying
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive salt or cheese
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Orzo Pasta Recipe
This orzo pasta with zucchini and tomato recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The orzo is perfectly cooked and pairs beautifully with the tender zucchini and juicy tomatoes. The addition of garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor, while the Parmesan or pecorino cheese brings a rich and savory element to the dish. The dish is simple yet elegant, making it a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying meal. It's a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. Overall, it's a delicious and well-balanced dish that is sure to impress.
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Why trust this Orzo with Zucchini and Tomato Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful meal with orzo pasta, a versatile ingredient that pairs perfectly with zucchini and tomato. The use of garlic and extra virgin olive oil infuses rich flavors, while the addition of parmesan or pecorino promises a satisfying finish. The step-by-step instructions ensure a seamless cooking experience, allowing you to create a delicious dish that's sure to impress. Trust in the harmonious blend of fresh ingredients and simple techniques to elevate your culinary skills and savor a delightful dining experience.
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