Cherry Tomato and Garlic Orzo Recipe – Lebanese Special
Cherry Tomato and Garlic Orzo is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tender orzo pasta tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs. This simple yet delicious side dish or light main course is perfect for summer meals and pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own.
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time10 min
- Total Time30 min
Cherry Tomato and Garlic Orzo Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Cook the Orzo:
Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook Orzo: Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Tomato and Garlic Mixture:
Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Cook Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
Add Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
Combine Ingredients:
Add Orzo: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the tomato and garlic mixture. Toss to combine and heat through.
Season: Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir in the chopped basil.
Finish and Serve:
Add Cheese: If desired, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Recipe Notes:
Orzo: Be sure not to overcook the orzo to avoid a mushy texture. It should be al dente.
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with grape tomatoes or other small, sweet varieties.
Garlic: Be cautious not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter. Cook it just until fragrant.
Herbs: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor, but other herbs like parsley or thyme can also be used.
Cheese: Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor. For a dairy-free version, you can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
