Mediterranean Roasted Tomato Orzo with Feta

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish, this roasted tomato orzo with feta is a must-try. It’s a vibrant, light meal packed with flavors that will transport you straight to the sunny shores of Greece. The combination of roasted cherry tomatoes, tangy feta, and fragrant basil makes this orzo pasta dish an irresistible choice for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for roasting the tomatoes.
2. Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes: On a baking sheet, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the tomatoes are evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
3. Roast the Tomatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the tomatoes for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re soft, caramelized, and slightly blistered.
4. Cook the Orzo: While the tomatoes are roasting, cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the orzo and set it aside.
5. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked orzo with the roasted tomatoes and all the delicious juices from the baking sheet. Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped basil.
6. Finish with Balsamic Vinegar: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the orzo mixture and toss everything together until well combined.
7. Serve and Enjoy: This dish can be served warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect as a main course or a side dish.

Tips for the Best Mediterranean Roasted Tomato Orzo:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality feta will elevate the flavors of this dish.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Try adding olives, capers, or even grilled chicken to make it a heartier meal.
• Make Ahead: This orzo salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to two days. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 250 kcal per serving

This Mediterranean roasted tomato orzo with feta is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it a go-to recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean without spending hours in the kitchen.