Description
This zesty orzo pasta recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining creamy ricotta, protein-rich chickpeas, and vibrant herbs. It’s a satisfying and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a chilled pasta salad.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo Pasta:
- 8 oz orzo pasta
Chickpea Mixture:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Orzo: Boil salted water and cook orzo per package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare Chickpea Mixture: In a skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil. Add chickpeas, lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until warmed through.
- Combine Ingredients: Add orzo, ricotta, Parmesan, and spinach to the skillet. Toss until cheese melts, adding pasta water for creaminess. Stir in basil and serve.
Notes
- For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp.
- This dish can be enjoyed chilled as a pasta salad; simply add the spinach before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
