Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo

Name: Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love creating meals that are both quick and delightful, and this Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo is one of my favorites. In just 30 minutes, I can whip up a comforting dish that’s packed with vibrant vegetables and rich flavors. The creamy tomato base brings a luscious texture, while the orzo serves as the perfect canvas for all the colorful veggies. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but it also makes for a satisfying meal that the whole family can enjoy any day of the week.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-01-21T22:01:34.797Z

When I first decided to try making a creamy orzo dish, I didn’t expect it to become such a staple in my kitchen. The combination of fresh tomatoes, spinach, and a touch of cream transforms these simple ingredients into something extraordinary. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in!

One tip that has worked beautifully for me is using vegetable broth instead of water. Not only does it enhance the flavor, but it also adds richness to the sauce. I’ve tried adding other veggies too, and each batch becomes unique, ensuring I never tire of this delightful dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect blend of creamy goodness and fresh vegetables
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
Versatile recipe that allows for endless veggie combinations

Enhancing the Creaminess

The heavy cream in this recipe is crucial for achieving that decadent, creamy texture that makes the dish so comforting. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, consider using half-and-half or a plant-based cream to maintain that creaminess without all the calories. Just keep in mind that altering the cream can slightly affect the overall richness of the sauce, so taste as you go and adjust your seasonings accordingly.

For those who love a little extra flavor, adding a dash of Italian seasoning or dried basil to the cream mixture can elevate the dish, enhancing the tomato's sweetness and richness. Try stirring in a few tablespoons of pesto for a different twist; this will not only add creaminess but also a burst of herbal flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully.

Perfecting the Orzo Texture

Cooking orzo can be tricky; overcooking it can lead to a mushy texture that detracts from the dish. Follow the package instructions closely and start tasting a minute or two before the suggested cooking time ends. You're looking for that perfect 'al dente' bite, which will hold up beautifully when mixed with the creamy sauce and vegetables.

If you have leftover orzo from previous meals, you can use it in this recipe. Just reduce the broth slightly to avoid making the dish too soupy, and ensure you're adding any leftover orzo towards the end of cooking to prevent it from overcooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup spinach, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Make sure to have everything prepped to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo:

Cook the Orzo

In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil and add the orzo. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the tomatoes. Stir in the spinach and pour in the heavy cream. Mix well and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy, delicious meal!

Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite vegetables!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like basil or oregano. You can also substitute the spinach with other greens such as kale or arugula.

Vegetable Variations

One of the best parts about this Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo is its versatility. You can easily swap out the spinach for kale or Swiss chard, which adds a different texture and flavor. If you prefer something with more crunch, toss in some diced bell peppers or zucchini. You can stir in fresh herbs like parsley or basil at the end for a burst of freshness that will brighten the overall dish.

Try incorporating seasonal vegetables to keep it fresh and exciting. In winter, add roasted butternut squash or Brussels sprouts for a heartier meal, while in the summer, sun-dried tomatoes and grilled asparagus can bring a delightful charred note.

Storing and Reheating

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, this creamy orzo dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, be aware that the sauce might thicken while sitting in the fridge. To reinstate that creamy texture, reheat it over low heat with a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up, stirring gently to prevent the orzo from sticking together.

For meal prep enthusiasts, this dish makes an excellent candidate. You can cook the orzo and sauce separately, storing them in airtight containers. Combine them when you're ready to eat, ensuring your orzo maintains its ideal texture while still benefiting from the creamy sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative, and omit the Parmesan cheese.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

→ Is orzo gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat and is not gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or other gluten-free grains.