Description
Hearty Mediterranean One Pot Chickpea Orzo brings comfort and zest to weeknight dinners with its simple yet flavorful fusion of protein-packed chickpeas and tender orzo. Seasonal herbs and robust spices create a delightful meal you’ll savor from first bite to last.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Dairy:
- 1 (15 ounces / 425 grams) can chickpeas, half smashed
- ¾ cup grated Pecorino cheese
- 2 cups half and half
- 2 cups chicken stock
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups orzo
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Seasonings and Additions:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ⅓ cup white wine (optional)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a robust skillet, warm olive oil over medium flame, introducing diced onions, fragrant garlic, and a whisper of red pepper flakes. Sauté until onions transform into a translucent, aromatic canvas.
- Introduce orzo to the pan, gently toasting the grains until they develop a delicate golden hue, creating a nutty undertone.
- Deglaze the skillet with white wine, allowing it to reduce and concentrate its essence. Pour in chicken stock and cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to let orzo simmer and absorb the luxurious liquid.
- Incorporate both mashed and whole chickpeas into the creamy mixture, stirring continuously. Adjust liquid as needed to maintain a silky, inviting texture. When orzo reaches perfect tenderness, remove from heat and fold in Pecorino, creating a rich, velvety finish.
- Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
- Transfer to serving dishes, garnishing with an additional dusting of black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve immediately while the dish radiates warmth and comfort.
Notes
- Customize Texture by adjusting liquid amounts during cooking to achieve desired creaminess without making the dish too soupy or dry.
- Enhance protein content by mashing some chickpeas for a creamy base while keeping some whole for added texture and visual appeal.
- Explore dairy-free alternatives by substituting half and half with coconut milk or vegetable broth to accommodate lactose-intolerant or vegan diets.
- Boost flavor complexity
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg