Spicy Tomato Orzo Recipe Creamy One Pot & Vegan

There’s something magical about the fusion of orzo and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. This one pot orzo recipe is one of my favourites because it tastes like it came from a restaraunt! Adding a can of chickpeas into the mix makes this a really wholesome vegan dinner idea. In this culinary adventure, we’ll explore the delightful realm of Spicy Tomato Orzo, a vegan Italian fusion recipe that promises a burst of taste in every mouthful.

This delicious plant-based dish is made in under 30 minutes! If you are a fan of one-pot recipes you can check out my collection of One Pot Vegan Meals here. 

Ingredients and Substitutions

Today’s recipe for Spicy Tomato Orzo Vegan is bursting with flavor, thanks to a combination of fresh and pantry ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at the main ingredients and some possible substitutions:

• Orzo Pasta: Orzo, with its small grains of rice-like appearance, is a type of pasta made from durum wheat semolina. If you prefer a whole grain option, whole wheat orzo is a great addition to this dish. For a gluten-free alternative, try using rice or gluten-free orzo.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Oil or Olive Oil: Using oil from sun-dried tomatoes adds extra depth to the flavor, but a drizzle of olive oil works just as well. You could also use vegan butter for a richer taste.
• Red Onion or Shallots: Finely diced red onion or chopped shallot adds sweetness and depth to the sauce. If you don’t have either on hand, a small yellow onion will also work.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These provide freshness and acidity. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, diced regular tomatoes or even canned tomatoes can be used.
• Hot Chili Flakes: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference. For a different kind of heat, harissa paste or chopped fresh red peppers can be substituted.
• Smoked Paprika: This adds a smoky flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a touch of liquid smoke can be used. The first time I made this I didn’t add smoked paprika, however I added it the second time and I will never go back! It adds such a beautiful smokey flavor and so much dept to the dish. 
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is best, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These are a key ingredient for the robust tomato flavor. If you can’t find them, you can use chopped fresh tomatoes, though the flavor will be less intense. To make this dish even easier you can buy the pre chopped sun-dried tomatoes for convenience. 
• Vegetable Broth: This is used to cook the orzo. For a richer flavor, you can use a vegan chicken broth. Some traditional pasta dishes are made especially decadent by adding some heavy cream to the mix. However, since heavy cream is not vegan try adding 1 cup of full fat coconut milk or cashew cream. 
• Spinach: Fresh spinach is added at the end for a burst of color and nutrients. Kale or Swiss chard can be used as well. 
• Balsamic Vinegar: Thick balsamic vinegar adds a sweet and tangy finish. Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar are good alternatives.
• Optional Toppings: Fresh basil or vegan cheese like vegan parm are delicious toppings. You could also add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for extra flavor. I love to season with a pinch of salt and lots of fresh ground black pepper. 

Helpful Tools

Having the right tools can make cooking this tomato orzo recipe a breeze. Here are some helpful tools for today’s recipe:

Cast Iron Pans: For those who enjoy using cast iron pans, they can be used for this recipe to enhance the depth of flavors.

Large Pan or Dutch Oven: A large pan or Dutch oven is essential for cooking the orzo evenly and allows you to mix the ingredients thoroughly without spilling.

Sharp Knife: For finely dicing the red onion and mincing the garlic, a sharp knife is crucial.

Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring the ingredients as they cook, especially when you need to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best flavor and consistency in your resulting dish.

Ladle: Helpful for adding the vegetable broth a little bit at a time to achieve the perfect creamy orzo dish.

Garlic Press: Speeds up the process of mincing garlic if you’re cooking for a large group or in a hurry.

Large Skillet: For those who prefer to sauté the vegetables separately before adding them to the main pot, a large skillet works well.

Airtight Container: If you have leftovers, storing them in an airtight container will keep them fresh for the next day.

Tips for Cooking Orzo

Cooking orzo to perfection is key to making this creamy orzo dish delightful. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:

1. Use Medium Heat: Cooking the orzo over medium heat ensures it cooks evenly without sticking to the bottom of the pan. The cooking times can vary between different brands so make sure to always follow the package instructions. 
2. Add Broth Gradually: Instead of adding all the vegetable broth at once, add it a little bit at a time. This allows the orzo to absorb the liquid and become creamy, similar to making orzo risotto.
3. Stir Frequently: To prevent the orzo from sticking and to distribute the flavors evenly, stir the mixture frequently, especially after adding the broth.
4. Don’t Overcook: Orzo should be cooked al dente, meaning it should be firm to the bite. Overcooking can make it mushy. If you aren’t sure, just taste it to check. 
5. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the orzo before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your preference. Adding dry seasonings like Italian seasoning can enhance the flavor.
6. Incorporate Spinach at the End: Add the fresh spinach in the last couple of minutes of cooking. This way, it wilts perfectly without becoming too soft.
7. Serve with a Drizzle of Olive Oil: For extra richness and flavor, a drizzle of olive oil or a small amount of vegan butter on top of the orzo just before serving can be a nice touch.
8. Experiment with Add-Ins: To make the dish heartier, consider adding cannellini beans or white beans, or even some cooked red peppers or full-fat coconut milk for a different twist.

Orzo has become my new favourite pasta noodle because of how versatile it is! The best thing about it is that it’s great with pasta sauce but also makes a delicious hearty soup. By following these tips, you can ensure that your Spicy Tomato Orzo Vegan turns out perfect every time, making it a staple in your vegan meal plan.

How To Make This Spicy Tomato Orzo Recipe

The first step is to start by heating sun-dried tomato oil and sautéing diced onion for 2-3 minutes.

Add in the cherry tomatoes, garlic, chili flakes, and smoked paprika. Dive into the rich, smoky flavor profile of smoked paprika, an ingredient that adds depth and complexity to the Spicy Tomato Orzo. Learn why this spice is a game-changer in the culinary world.

Stir in tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo, adding vegetable broth gradually. 

Orzo and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: A Perfect Pairing

Uncover the chemistry between orzo and sun-dried tomatoes. The marriage of textures and tastes elevates this dish to a whole new level, making it a must-have in your recipe repertoire.

Let the orzo absorb the broth until al dente, then fold in spinach and balsamic vinegar.

Elevating the Dish with Balsamic Vinegar

Balsamic vinegar isn’t just a dressing; it’s a secret weapon. Explore how this tangy elixir enhances the overall taste of spicy vegan tomato orzo, turning a simple dish into a gourmet delight.

Serve with fresh basil or vegan parm, and savor the exquisite flavors.

Tips & Tricks

• Ensure gradual broth addition for perfectly cooked orzo.
• Let the spinach wilt just enough, maintaining its vibrant color and nutritional value.
• Experiment with vegan parmesan or fresh basil for added depth.

FAQ

Spicy Tomato Orzo

Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Spicy Tomato Orzo – a vegan delight featuring orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, and a symphony of spices. Quick, easy, and undeniably delicious!

5 from 8 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main, Main Course

Cuisine Fusion, Italian, Spanish

Servings 4 people

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• ▢ 300g orzo
• ▢ 1-2 tbsp oil from sun-dried tomatoes or olive oil
• ▢ 1 small red onion, finely diced (or 2 shallots)
• ▢ 1 pint cherry tomatoes (2 cups)
• ▢ 1-2 tbsp hot chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
• ▢ 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ▢ 2 tbsp tomato paste
• ▢ 5 cloves garlic, minced
• ▢ 280g chopped sun-dried tomatoes (1 small jar)
• ▢ 2 ½ cups veg broth (600ml)
• ▢ 2 large handfuls spinach, roughly chopped
• ▢ 2 tbsp thick balsamic vinegar
• ▢ salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• In a dutch oven or large pot over medium heat, add sun-dried tomato oil, and diced onion. Cook for about 3 mins, then add in cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 mins.
• Next, add in minced garlic, chili flakes, cherry tomatoes and smoked paprika and stir constantly for 1 min.
• Add in tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo. Cook for 1-2 mins then add in half the vegetable broth.
• Once the broth has been absorbed, keep adding more broth a little bit at a time until the orzo is cooked al dente.
• Add in chopped spinach, and thick balsamic vinegar and stir to combine. Allow the spinach to cook for 1 min.
• Serve with fresh basil or vegan parm if desired, and enjoy!

Notes

Add a can of chickpeas if desired. 

Note: Nutritional information is approximate values and can vary significantly depending on the specific brands of ingredients used. Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered professional nutritional advice.

Nutrition

Serving: 200g | Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Sodium: 400mg | Potassium: 400mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 200IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 2mg

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Conclusion: Spicy Tomato Orzo

In conclusion, Spicy Tomato Orzo is not just a delicious recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors. From the zing of sun-dried tomatoes to the warmth of smoked paprika, every element comes together to create a culinary masterpiece. This whole recipe takes less than 30 minutes and is sure to impress your guests too! Embrace the vegan twist and elevate your dining experience with this delightful recipe.

Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup Vegan Copycat Recipe

Vegan Sun-dried Tomato Pesto 10 Minute Recipe

Red Thai Curry Risotto Vegan Recipe