Description
Mediterranean Orzo and Beans is a cozy, one-pot dinner packed with tender orzo pasta, hearty kidney and pinto beans, fresh spinach, and a rich tomato-herb broth. This easy Mediterranean-inspired recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you crave a comforting yet wholesome plant-based meal.
Ingredients
1–2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced into discs
1½ cups cherry tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, grated
2 bay leaves or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cans (15 oz each) beans, drained and rinsed (1 kidney + 1 pinto recommended)
4 cups vegetable broth (plus up to 1 extra cup if needed)
1 cup orzo pasta (or ditalini)
5 ounces baby spinach (about 5 cups)
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Black pepper to taste
Optional: grated parmesan, drizzle of olive oil, squeeze of lemon
Instructions
Sauté the vegetables:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.Build the flavor:
Stir in garlic, bay leaves (or thyme), oregano, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute, adding a splash of water if needed.Add beans and broth:
Stir in drained beans, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.Cook the orzo:
Add orzo and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking. Add extra broth or hot water as needed to maintain a creamy consistency.Finish with spinach:
Stir in spinach and cook for 1 minute until wilted. Turn off heat while orzo is slightly firm.Serve:
Adjust seasoning. Remove bay leaves. Finish with parmesan, olive oil, or lemon if desired.
Notes
Stir frequently once the orzo is added to prevent sticking.
Add extra broth gradually for a creamy, risotto-like texture.
Leftovers will thicken in the fridge; add a splash of broth when reheating.
Swap beans based on preference (chickpeas or cannellini work well).
For added protein, top with grilled chicken or turkey sausage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1½ cups)
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 58 g
- Fiber: 11 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg