Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo

Name: Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium eggplant, diced; 2 bell peppers, diced (any color); 1 zucchini, diced; 1 red onion, quartered; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 cup orzo pasta; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Collection

I absolutely love making Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo as a comforting dish to savor with family and friends. Each time I prepare it, I’m reminded of lazy weekend afternoons filled with laughter and delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen. The orzo, roasted vegetables, and a hint of herbs create a delightful medley of flavors that encapsulate the essence of a cozy gathering. Trust me, every bite will have you craving more, making it a perfect staple for any Sunday meal.

Created by

Tilda Greenwood

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:26:35.353Z

When I first experimented with roasting vegetables, I found that the process not only enhanced their sweetness but also added depth to the overall dish. Using a variety of seasonal vegetables keeps things interesting. I love combining eggplant, bell peppers, and zucchini, but feel free to mix in your favorites!

This method of combining roasted veggies with orzo has become a staple in my kitchen. Cooking the orzo in broth instead of water boosts the flavor significantly. The end result is a colorful, satisfying dish that can stand on its own or complement grilled meats perfectly.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Colorful and nutritious medley of seasonal vegetables
Creamy, hearty texture that comforts the soul
Versatile as a main dish or side for any occasion

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

To create a vibrant and flavorful Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo, selecting the right vegetables is key. Seasonal choices like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant bring brightness and variety to the dish, but don’t be afraid to experiment! Carrots, cherry tomatoes, or even asparagus can add different textures and flavors. Aim for a mix of colors and shapes for an appealing presentation and a well-balanced nutrient profile.

Roasting not only enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables but also provides a slightly smoky flavor. To achieve the best results, make sure to cut the vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking. If using denser vegetables like carrots, consider cutting them smaller to ensure they roast at the same rate as lighter veggies.

Perfecting Your Orzo

Orzo pasta is a delightful addition to this dish, providing a creamy, cohesive texture that complements the roasted vegetables. Pay close attention to the cooking time as orzo can quickly turn mushy if overcooked. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking, and drain it once it reaches al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes in boiling vegetable broth. This method adds an extra layer of flavor compared to cooking in plain water.

For added creaminess, consider stirring in a bit more vegetable broth or a splash of olive oil after cooking the orzo. This will help achieve that desirable silky texture. If you are aiming for a vegan version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative, which can enhance the flavors without compromising on texture.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

When it comes to serving your Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo, there are plenty of delicious possibilities. This dish can stand alone as a hearty main course or pair beautifully as a side to grilled proteins like chicken or fish. Garnishing with additional fresh herbs or a light drizzle of balsamic reduction can elevate the dish further, making it visually appealing and bursting with flavor.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a touch of vegetable broth to restore moisture. This dish also freezes well; divide into portions and freeze for up to a month. Thaw and reheat for a quick meal that tastes just as good as when freshly made.

Ingredients

For Roasted Vegetables

1 medium eggplant, diced
2 bell peppers, diced (any color)
1 zucchini, diced
1 red onion, quartered
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano

For Orzo

1 cup orzo pasta
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced eggplant, bell peppers, zucchini, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and oregano, and toss until well coated. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook the Orzo

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once al dente, drain any excess liquid.

Combine and Serve

In a large serving bowl, combine the roasted vegetables and cooked orzo. Mix in fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if using. Serve warm and enjoy the hearty flavors!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute any vegetables based on what you have on hand. Additionally, adding a splash of lemon juice before serving brightens the flavors wonderfully.

Making It Your Own

Flexibility is one of the best features of the Sunday Roasted Vegetable Orzo. Don't hesitate to swap in your favorite vegetables based on what's in season or available in your pantry. For instance, swap out the eggplant for mushrooms for an earthy flavor or add spinach at the end of cooking for a fresh touch. Seasonal ingredients can bring a new life to the dish, keeping it exciting week after week.

You can also adjust the herbs and seasoning to reflect your personal taste. Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or fresh basil for a fragrant twist. Experimenting with herbs allows for creativity while ensuring each version remains uniquely delicious.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your roasted vegetables are too soft, try increasing the roast temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last five minutes, giving them a more charred texture. Make sure to spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet; overcrowding can cause steaming instead of roasting, which will affect the final taste and texture.

A common issue with orzo is overcooking, which can lead to a gummy consistency. To prevent this, set a timer for the minimum cooking time noted on the package and taste frequently. If you happen to overcook it, avoid despairing; a splash of broth and some fresh herbs can often salvage the dish, restoring some vibrancy and flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

Should you need to scale this recipe for a larger gathering, simply double or triple the quantities while keeping the cooking times relatively unchanged. Two baking sheets might be necessary for the vegetables to roast correctly without crowding. A single batch of orzo can generally handle an increased quantity without compromising texture, as long as you adjust the broth accordingly.

When scaling, it's easy to over-season. Start with less salt and pepper, and add more to taste once you've mixed everything together. This will help ensure every bite is just as delicious, regardless of the size of your gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can roast the vegetables and cook the orzo in advance. Simply combine them when you're ready to serve.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be excellent additions.

→ What should I serve alongside this orzo?

This dish goes well with grilled meats or a simple green salad.