Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo

Name: Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo; 2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Basic Kitchen

I absolutely love cooking with fresh ingredients, and this Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo recipe is a perfect example of that passion. The combination of roasted veggies brings out their natural sweetness, while the orzo adds a delightful texture that makes every bite enjoyable. I often make this dish for family gatherings, and it never fails to impress. It's versatile, so you can easily customize it with your favorite seasonal vegetables. Plus, the vibrant colors make this dish as beautiful as it is delicious!

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:14:34.800Z

When I first made this dish, I was surprised at how much flavor comes from the roasting process. The veggies caramelize beautifully, creating a mouthwatering depth that simply cannot be achieved with boiling. Each vegetable adds its unique taste and texture, which is something I really appreciate in a one-pot meal.

Another tip I learned along the way is to let the orzo absorb the roasted vegetable juices. This elevates the dish into something truly special, making it perfect for not just Sunday meals but any occasion where you want to impress your guests!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful symphony of roasted flavors and textures
Perfectly cooked orzo that's infused with vegetable goodness
Colorful presentation that makes any meal festive

      

Perfecting Your Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables enhances their natural sweetness and texture, making them tender and delicious. For this recipe, I recommend cutting your vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking—about 1-inch cubes for zucchini and bell peppers, while leaving cherry tomatoes whole. This way, they roast beautifully and develop slightly charred edges that add a depth of flavor. The high temperature of 400°F (200°C) helps to achieve that perfect balance of externally crispy and internally tender.

During roasting, keep an eye on the vegetables. You want them to become vibrant and slightly caramelized without turning mushy. If they start to look dry, you can drizzle a little more olive oil on them halfway through. When done, they should be fork-tender and have golden, crispy parts. This step is essential for elevating the overall taste of your orzo dish!

Cooking the Orzo to Perfection

Cooking orzo might sound straightforward, but timing is crucial for the desired chewy texture. Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the orzo. Follow the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes of cook time, but start checking for doneness a minute or two early. You want the orzo al dente—cooked through but still firm to the bite. This ensures it holds up well when mixed with the roasted vegetables.

After draining the orzo, consider adding a splash of olive oil to keep it from sticking. Mixing it with the roasted vegetables immediately while they’re still warm allows the pasta to absorb some of those fantastic flavors, creating cohesion in your dish. If you're planning to serve later, you can store the orzo and roasted veggies separately to maintain their textures, then combine them just before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup orzo
2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh basil for garnish

Once you have everything, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious orzo:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Vegetables

In a bowl, toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly on a baking sheet.

Roast the Vegetables

Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until tender and golden.

Cook the Orzo

While the vegetables are roasting, cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Combine Everything

Once the vegetables are done, mix them with the cooked orzo. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your delightful Sunday meal!

And there you have it! A vibrant dish full of flavor.

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables based on the season. Broccoli, carrots, or eggplant would also work beautifully in this dish!

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to prepare it in advance, roast the vegetables and cook the orzo, then store them separately. This way, your dish maintains its freshness and textures when reheated. Reheating can be done in the microwave or on the stovetop—just add a splash of water and cover it to create steam, which helps rehydrate the orzo without drying it out.

If you want to freeze the dish, I recommend freezing the vegetables and orzo separately, as pasta can become mushy when frozen. Store the vegetables in freezer-safe bags, press out the excess air, and they’ll keep for about 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat with the orzo for a quick weeknight meal.

Versatile Variations

One of the best aspects of this roasted vegetable orzo is its versatility. Feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand—think asparagus in spring or butternut squash in fall. You could also add protein like chickpeas or grilled chicken to make it a heartier meal. For a touch of zing, consider stirring in some lemon zest or a splash of balsamic vinegar right before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Additionally, if you're looking to make this dish lighter or vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative. Nutritional yeast can add a similar cheesy flavor while keeping it plant-based. Mixing in fresh herbs at the end, like parsley or chives, can also enhance the dish, bringing in a fresh burst of flavors that complements the roasted vegetables beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast the vegetables and cook the orzo in advance. Just combine them before serving.

→ What can I serve with orzo?

This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a simple green salad.

→ Is the recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this orzo recipe is completely vegetarian. You can easily make it vegan by omitting the cheese.

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables are a great option! Just be sure to thaw and drain them before roasting.