Name: Zesty Orzo Pasta with Creamy Ricotta and Protein-Packed Chickpeas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup ricotta cheese; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a fantastic mix of textures and flavors. The creamy ricotta perfectly complements the zesty lemon and protein-rich chickpeas, while the orzo pasta brings a comforting base. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, yet full of wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied. The addition of Parmesan and fresh parsley makes it a great choice for any vegetarian meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup ricotta cheese
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the Orzo:
In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until translucent.
Cook the Garlic and Chickpeas:
Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then add the chickpeas and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to warm through.
Combine the Ingredients:
Reduce heat to low and stir in the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until creamy and well combined.
Toss with Orzo:
Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss everything together. Add vegetable broth if needed to reach your desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegan Version: Swap the ricotta and Parmesan for plant-based alternatives like vegan ricotta and nutritional yeast.
Extra Protein: Top the dish with grilled chicken, tofu, or extra chickpeas for an additional protein boost.
More Zesty: Add extra lemon juice or a pinch of lemon zest for a stronger citrus flavor.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of vegetable broth to bring back the creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the orzo with any small pasta shape like farfalle or penne.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the skillet when cooking the garlic and chickpeas.

Can I use canned ricotta cheese?

Fresh ricotta is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but canned ricotta can work in a pinch.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to add sautéed spinach, roasted bell peppers, or zucchini to make it more colorful and nutrient-rich.

Can I freeze this dish?

While the texture may change after freezing, you can freeze the orzo mixture without the fresh parsley and reheat it for a future meal.

Conclusion

Zesty Orzo Pasta with Creamy Ricotta and Protein-Packed Chickpeas is a quick, wholesome, and satisfying meal perfect for busy nights or when you need a quick boost of flavor. With its creamy ricotta, vibrant lemon, and protein-packed chickpeas, this dish offers a Mediterranean-inspired twist that will please vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.