Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach Orzo with Feta is a comforting yet elegant Mediterranean-inspired dish that perfectly balances creamy textures and bright, tangy flavors. Tender orzo pasta, vibrant spinach, and chewy sun-dried tomatoes come together in a luscious, lightly garlicky sauce, all finished with the salty tang of crumbled feta cheese.

It’s a dish that feels both cozy and refreshing — perfect for any time of the year. Whether you serve it warm as a main course or chilled as a side salad, its combination of ingredients brings depth, richness, and a burst of sunshine to your plate.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet flavorful, comforting yet light, and beautifully balanced. The sun-dried tomatoes infuse the dish with a concentrated sweetness, the spinach adds freshness and color, and the feta provides a delightful saltiness that ties everything together.

It’s also a one-pan wonder — minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. The orzo absorbs all the flavors as it cooks, creating a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream. This dish is my go-to for quick weeknight meals, elegant dinner sides, or even meal prep lunches that taste better the next day.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

You must try this recipe because it’s:

• Quick and easy — ready in about 30 minutes.
• Packed with flavor — every ingredient contributes something special.
• Versatile — works as a vegetarian main dish, side, or base for proteins.
• Healthy and balanced — rich in fiber, vitamins, and protein from the feta and spinach.
• Crowd-pleasing — everyone loves its Mediterranean flair!

It’s one of those dishes that looks and tastes like it took hours to make — but is wonderfully simple to prepare.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~410 kcal per serving

Course and Cuisine

• Course: Main Course / Side Dish
• Cuisine: Mediterranean / Greek-inspired

Ingredients

For the Orzo:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil, drained)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

For Garnish:

• Extra feta crumbles
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Orzo

1. In a medium pot or large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add orzo pasta and toast lightly for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until it turns golden brown.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

1. Stir in minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for about 30 seconds to release their aroma.

Step 3: Simmer the Orzo

1. Pour in vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
2. Lower the heat, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 4: Add Spinach

1. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
2. Add oregano, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice (if using).

Step 5: Add the Cheese

1. Remove from heat and gently stir in feta cheese and Parmesan (if using).
2. The heat from the orzo will melt the cheeses slightly, creating a creamy and flavorful consistency.

Step 6: Adjust and Serve

1. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
2. Garnish with extra feta and fresh basil or parsley before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve warm as a main vegetarian meal or a side dish to grilled chicken, fish, or lamb.
• For a light summer version, let it cool and serve as a Mediterranean pasta salad.
• Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon for added freshness.

Recipe Tips

• Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil — they add richness and depth.
• Toast the orzo before adding broth for a nutty flavor.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt at the end.
• Don’t overcook spinach; it should stay bright green and just wilted.
• Add a splash of broth if the orzo becomes too thick before serving.

Recipe Variations

1. Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
2. Mediterranean Style: Include Kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts.
3. Creamy Version: Stir in a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone for a richer sauce.
4. Vegan Option: Skip the feta and Parmesan; use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
5. Spicy Twist: Add chopped fresh chili or more red pepper flakes.
6. Herb Swap: Replace basil with mint, dill, or parsley for a different aromatic touch.

Freezing and Storage

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen.

Freezing:

• You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months, though the spinach may soften slightly upon thawing.
• To reheat: thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet over low heat.

Special Equipment Needed

• Medium pot or deep skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
Yes, but sun-dried tomatoes provide a deeper, more intense flavor. You can use roasted cherry tomatoes as a substitute.

Q2: Can I use another pasta?
Yes! Small pastas like couscous, ditalini, or mini shells can replace orzo.

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely — omit the feta and Parmesan or use plant-based alternatives.

Q4: Can this be served cold?
Yes! It makes a fantastic cold pasta salad when chilled.

Q5: How do I make it more filling?
Add grilled chicken, sausage, or white beans for extra protein.

Conclusion

Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach Orzo with Feta is a dish that brings the warmth of the Mediterranean right to your table. It’s hearty, healthy, and bursting with vibrant flavor — the perfect harmony of tangy, creamy, and savory elements in every bite.

This easy one-pan wonder is as satisfying as it is beautiful, making it ideal for everything from a simple weeknight dinner to an elegant side at a dinner party. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation — proof that the best meals don’t need to be complicated to be delicious.