This orzo dish is a fun twist on pasta! Soft orzo is mixed with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy gorgonzola cheese. It’s colorful and bursting with flavor.
Every bite is like a warm hug on a plate! I love how quick it is to make—perfect for busy nights when you still want something tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a tiny pasta that looks like rice. If you’re gluten-free, try quinoa or rice as a substitute. If you have orzo on hand, it’s worth using for that unique texture!
Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little tomatoes are perfect for roasting. If they aren’t in season, you can use canned diced tomatoes. Just be sure to drain them well for the best results.
Gorgonzola Cheese: This cheese adds a creamy, tangy flavor to the dish. If you don’t have Gorgonzola, feel free to swap it for feta cheese or goat cheese, which also melt nicely and add flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that fresh taste, but if it’s hard to find, try using spinach or arugula as a substitute. Dried basil isn’t quite the same, but you could use it in a pinch (1 teaspoon should do).
Pine Nuts or Walnuts: These nuts add a lovely crunch. If you’re looking for an alternative, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work well, too!
How Do I Cook Orzo to Perfection?
Cooking orzo might seem simple, but perfecting it can make a big difference! Here’s how:
- Always add salt to the boiling water. This seasons the pasta while cooking.
- Cook until al dente (firm to the bite), which usually takes 8-10 minutes. Check a minute or two early to prevent overcooking.
- Don’t rinse the orzo after draining! Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce stick.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfect orzo every time, ready to soak up all those delicious flavors!
Orzo with Tomatoes, Basil, and Gorgonzola
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pasta:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- For the Sauce:
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- For the Garnish:
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- ½ cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts or walnuts (optional, toasted)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious orzo dish takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the orzo while making the sauce, and then just a few minutes to combine everything together. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook until al dente, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Drain the orzo and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the orzo cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Tomatoes:
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, along with ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Stirring occasionally, cook until the tomatoes soften and start to burst, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine Pasta and Tomatoes:
Once the tomatoes are ready, turn the heat down to low and add the drained orzo to the skillet. Stir gently to combine everything, allowing the flavors to meld for about 1-2 minutes.
5. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Take the skillet off the heat and fold in the chopped basil and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese. Stir gently until the cheese starts to melt into the warm pasta and sauce. This adds a creamy texture and enhances the flavor.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Everyone’s taste is different, so make it perfect for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the orzo warm, topping each plate with extra crumbled Gorgonzola, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch and flavor. Enjoy your colorful and delicious dish!
This vibrant dish blends creamy Gorgonzola with fresh basil and sweet tomatoes, making it a quick yet flavorful meal perfect for any time!
Can I Use Different Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! If you can’t find orzo, you can substitute it with any small pasta shape like ditalini, couscous, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead! Cook the orzo and sauce separately, then combine just before serving. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of olive oil for moisture if needed.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Use Dried Basil Instead of Fresh?
While fresh basil offers the best flavor, you can use dried basil if necessary. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for this recipe, but add it earlier in the cooking process to give it time to rehydrate and release its flavors.
