Tomato Orzo Pasta Feta Yoghurt Recipe

I absolutely adore this orzo recipe because it’s a vibrant explosion of Mediterranean flavors that feels like a comforting hug in every bite. The creamy fusion of feta and Greek yogurt blends perfectly with the juicy, roasted cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs, making it the ultimate cozy yet refreshing meal for any day of the week.

I adore this Tomato Orzo Pasta with Feta Yogurt; it’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures. My recipe combines savory orzo simmered in nutrient-rich vegetable broth, with juicy cherry tomatoes and a hint of dried oregano.

The creamy Greek yogurt and crumbled feta cheese added to the dish offer a delightful, tangy richness that takes it over the top.

Ingredients

Orzo Pasta:
The ingredients are abundant in carbs, which are necessary for providing energy and a nice creamy texture.

Olive Oil:
A fat source that is heart-healthy and has antioxidants; boosts flavor.

Cherry Tomatoes:
Rich in vitamins and antioxidants; contributes succulent sweetness.

Feta Cheese:
Provides a salty, tangy flavor while delivering protein and calcium.

Greek Yogurt:
Creamy-textured and protein-rich, it balances with an understated tanginess.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Optional: Red pepper flakes, for heat

Instructions

1. In a big pot, warm the olive oil on medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle there for about 1 minute until your kitchen smells of garlic.

2. Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the pot. Then sprinkle on some dried oregano, salt, and pepper, and let everything cook together for 5-7 minutes. During this time, the tomatoes will soften and start to let loose their juices.

3. Mix in the orzo pasta, making sure it’s well combined with the tomatoes and garlic.

4. Add the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Lower the heat and allow the orzo to simmer for 8-10 minutes, occasionally stirring, until it reaches the al dente stage and the broth is mostly absorbed.

6. In a small bowl, combine the feta cheese, which should be crumbled, with the Greek yogurt, which should be thoroughly mixed and made smooth and creamy.

7. When the orzo is done, take the pot off the heat and mix in the feta-yogurt blend. Make sure the pasta is well coated.

8. Incorporate lemon juice, basil, and parsley—chopped fine—stirring gently to create a cohesive mixture.

9. Sample the dish and modify the flavor profile as necessary, with added salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes, if you wish.

10. Serve the orzo-tomato pasta warm, adding any extra fresh herbs or feta to the dish as you see fit.

Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Wooden spoon or spatula
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cups
7. Small bowl
8. Citrus juicer or reamer (optional)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?Q: Is it true that you can replace orzo with other small pasta?

  A: Yes. You can substitute orzo with other small pasta like ditalini or small shells. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

• Q: Is there a substitute for feta cheese?Other cheeses, such as goat cheese or ricotta, can work well in lieu of feta cheese, should you need an alternative for it, because they can yield a similar creamy texture.
• Q: How can I make this dish vegan?A: To prepare this meal for vegans, replace the feta with a plant-based cheese and use yogurt made from any non-dairy substance in its place.
• Q: Can I prepare this recipe in advance?A: You can prepare it in advance; however, to maintain freshness, add the herbs and yogurt right before you serve it.
• Q: How can I add more protein to this dish?Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be added to boost the protein content.
• Q: Is it possible to use fresh tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes that have been chopped; just make certain they are ripe and tasty.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitute orzo pasta with tiny pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe.
Substitute canola oil or sunflower oil for olive oil.
Feta cheese: For a different texture, substitute with goat cheese or ricotta salata.
Greek yogurt: Replace with sour cream or plain, regular yogurt.
Basil is best fresh, but if you can’t get fresh basil, substitute with either fresh mint leaves or arugula, which has a slightly peppier flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Use High-Quality Olive Oil Opt for a good quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavor of the garlic and tomatoes. The oil is one of the main flavor carriers in this dish, so using a high-quality type can make a big difference.

2. Roast the Tomatoes for Extra Depth Consider roasting the cherry tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the pot. This can intensify their sweetness and add a deeper flavor profile to the dish.

3. Toast the Orzo Before adding the broth, toast the orzo in the pot for a couple of minutes until lightly golden. This adds a nutty flavor and helps keep the orzo from becoming too mushy.

4. Infuse the Broth You can enhance the broth by simmering it with a parmesan rind or a bay leaf before using it in the recipe. This adds an additional layer of flavor to the dish.

5. Finish with Fresh Herbs Last Stir in the basil and parsley just before serving to keep their flavors bright and fresh. Overcooking them can cause them to lose their vibrant color and fresh taste.