An ideal 20-minute meal! Chickpeas and orzo enveloped in a rich, creamy, flavor-packed tomato sauce.
This recipe is brought to you by DeLallo! ♡
Marry Me Orzo Is Incredibly Delicious.
The last occasion I prepared this, I believe I consumed half the batch alone.
This is what makes this dish so appealing, in my opinion:
- The aromatic combination of shallot, garlic, and thyme. That’s a mic drop moment.
- A creamy tomato sauce.
- Little chewy, carby, textured morsels that are wonderfully uniform in size – the orzo and chickpeas simply crave companionship.
The way it binds together, the rich creaminess, full of flavor with the shallot, garlic, and fresh thyme. UGH.
In this kitchen, we utilize DeLallo products extensively – I always have a fondness for their orzo (and my friend swears by their gluten-free orzo) and their Castelvetrano olive oil in a squeeze bottle. For this recipe, I’m also particularly fond of their jarred tomato products as an enhancement – the sun-dried tomatoes if you wish to stick to the classic Marry Me flavor profile, but also the fresh tomato bruschetta (a personal favorite), the Calabrian chiles for something adventurous, or the roasted tomatoes for a chunkier choice.
There’s a benefit worth noting: this comes together in about 20 minutes. Perhaps 30, at most. It’s simple, requiring minimal cutting board time, yet still filled with vegetables and protein. This dish oozes a touch of sophistication while being ready for a weeknight meal.
I hope you enjoy it.
(If you desire an alternative with another protein – such as chicken – the original Marry Me Chicken recipe can be found here!)
See Me Create This Dish
Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo
Total Time:
25 minutesYield:
4–6 servings 1x
Description
An ideal 20-minute meal! Chickpeas and orzo enveloped in a rich, creamy, flavor-packed tomato sauce.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Marry Me Orzo
Optional Add-Ins and Toppings
Instructions
- Aromatics and Chickpeas: Warm the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Introduce the shallot and garlic; sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and aromatic. Mix in the chickpeas and tomato paste; sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until it achieves a deeper red hue.
- Cook Orzo: Incorporate the orzo, chicken broth, and thyme sprigs; bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 7-9 minutes.
- Finish Sauce: Extract the thyme sprigs. Maintain low heat. Mix in the cream and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until it’s completely rich and creamy. Taste and modify seasonings, adding more cream if desired.
- Add-Ins: Stir in your sun-dried or fresh tomatoes and spinach, mixing until the spinach wilts. Serve topped with fresh herbs (I prefer thyme) and Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: marry me pasta, marry me orzo, vegetarian marry me recipe
More Delectable Orzo Recipes
Thanks to DeLallo for supporting this dish!
**Chickpeas and Orzo: An Ideal Culinary Pairing**
Chickpeas and orzo may initially appear to be an unusual pair, but these two components combine to produce a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that enhance any recipe. Both versatile and nutritious, chickpeas and orzo may serve numerous culinary purposes, making them an ideal choice for those in search of tasty and healthy meals.
**Nutritional Giants**
Chickpeas, often called garbanzo beans, are a fundamental element in many cuisines globally. They are abundant in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an exceptional option for vegetarians and vegans. Chickpeas are notably high in folate, iron, and magnesium, which support overall health and wellness. Their nutty taste and firm texture allow them to be easily incorporated into salads, stews, and curries.
Orzo, a pasta variety resembling a large grain of rice, is commonly found in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern recipes. Made from semolina flour, orzo serves as a good carbohydrate source, offering energy and fullness. It is also low in fat and can be supplemented with vitamins and minerals based on the manufacturer. Orzo’s subtle taste and smooth consistency make it an excellent base for an array of dishes, from soups to salads.
**Culinary Flexibility**
The combination of chickpeas and orzo presents endless options in the kitchen. Their matching textures and flavors can be showcased in various recipes, whether served warm or cold. Here are a few suggestions to ignite your culinary imagination:
1. **Mediterranean Chickpea and Orzo Salad**: Combine cooked orzo and chickpeas with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and Kalamata olives. Dress with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley and mint. This vibrant salad is ideal for a light lunch or a side dish at a summer gathering.
2. **Chickpea and Orzo Soup**: Craft a comforting soup by simmering chickpeas and orzo in vegetable broth, carrots, celery, and spinach. Flavor with herbs such as thyme and rosemary for added richness. This hearty soup is perfect for a cozy dinner on a cool evening.
3. **Lemon Herb Orzo with Roasted Chickpeas**: Roast chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until crisp. Serve atop orzo cooked with lemon zest and fresh dill. This dish is a delightful mix of zesty and savory flavors, excellent as a main course or a side.
4. **Spicy Chickpea and Orzo Pilaf**: Sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers with cumin, coriander, and chili flakes. Stir in chickpeas and orzo, cooking until the orzo is tender. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a spicy, aromatic meal.
**A Culinary Match in Paradise**
Chickpeas and orzo are not just a nutritious duo; they represent a culinary pairing made in paradise. Their adaptability to diverse flavors and cuisines makes them a necessity in any kitchen. Whether you need a swift weeknight dinner or a recipe to impress guests, chickpeas and orzo provide a delicious and fulfilling option. Embrace the versatility of these ingredients and explore the limitless possibilities they introduce to your meals.