This One-Pot Pasta Has 15,000+ Reviews and a Five-Star Rating | Melissa Clark | NYT Cooking

feta cheese

🥗Healthier: goat cheese

💰Cheaper: ricotta cheese

Goat cheese provides a similar tangy flavor with less fat.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is more budget-friendly while still providing a neutral flavor.

kalamata olives

🥗Healthier: green olives

💰Cheaper: black olives

Black olives are often less expensive and provide a similar briny taste.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free option that adds umami flavor.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.

Sauté chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Stir in orzo and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly.

Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.

Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, and kalamata olives; stir to combine.

Season with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice; mix well.

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Garnish with chopped parsley and additional feta if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens