An ideal 20-minute dinner! Chickpeas and orzo enveloped in a rich, creamy, flavor-packed tomato sauce.
This recipe is brought to you by DeLallo! ♡
Marry Me Orzo Is Absolutely Delicious.
The last time I prepared this, I believe I consumed half of the entire batch myself.
Here’s why I find this so delightful:
- The combination of shallot, garlic, thyme. Mic drop.
- A creamy tomato sauce.
- Little chewy, carby, textured pieces that are charmingly uniform in size – the orzo and chickpeas just seem destined to be paired.
The way it binds together, the velvety creaminess, intense flavor with the shallot, garlic, and fresh thyme. UGH.
We use DeLallo ingredients all over this kitchen – I’m always fond of their orzo (and my friend swears by their gluten-free orzo) and their Castelvetrano oil in the convenient squeeze bottle. For this dish, I also really appreciate all their little jarred tomato products as additions – the sun-dried tomatoes for sticking to the classic Marry Me flavor profile, but also the fresh tomato bruschetta (personal favorite), the Calabrian chiles for a twist, or the roasted tomatoes for a heartier alternative.
Guys, a noteworthy bonus: this comes together in virtually 20 minutes. Maybe 30 at most. It’s straightforward, minimal chopping required, yet there’s still plenty of veg and protein in it. This dish is a tad fancy but also perfect for a weeknight.
I hope you enjoy it.
(If you desire an option with a different protein – like chicken – the original Marry Me Chicken recipe is here for you!)
Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo
Total Time:
25 minutesYield:
4–6 servings 1x
Description
An ideal 20-minute dinner! 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: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Introduce the shallot and garlic; sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and aromatic. Incorporate chickpeas and tomato paste; sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until a deeper red hue appears.
- Cook Orzo: Incorporate orzo, chicken broth, and thyme sprigs; bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 7-9 minutes.
- Finish Sauce: Discard thyme sprigs. Maintain low heat. Stir in the cream and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, until it’s completely luxurious and creamy. Taste and modify seasonings, adding extra cream if desired.
- Add-Ins: Stir in your sun-dried or fresh tomatoes and spinach, mixing until the spinach wilts. Serve garnished 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 Exciting Orzo Recipes
Thanks to DeLallo for supporting this recipe!
**Chickpeas and Orzo: A Perfect Match**
Chickpeas and orzo might not be the first pairing that pops into your head when considering culinary combinations, but these two ingredients together create a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that can enhance any meal. Both adaptable and nutritious, chickpeas and orzo can feature in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups, offering a fulfilling and healthful dining experience.
**Nutritional Powerhouses**
Chickpeas, also referred to as garbanzo beans, are fundamental in numerous cuisines worldwide. They are abundant in protein, fiber, and vital vitamins and minerals such as folate, iron, and phosphorus. This makes them an exceptional choice for vegetarians and anyone looking to enhance their protein intake without relying on meat.
Orzo, a pasta variety resembling large grains of rice, is made from semolina flour sourced from durum wheat. It serves as a good source of carbohydrates and provides energy, making it an ideal accompaniment to the protein-dense chickpeas. Orzo also contains small quantities of fiber and iron, contributing to a balanced diet.
**Culinary Versatility**
The combination of chickpeas and orzo is extraordinarily versatile, suitable for a multitude of dishes. Here are some ideas to spark your next meal:
1. **Mediterranean Chickpea and Orzo Salad**: Combine cooked orzo and chickpeas with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and Kalamata olives. Dress with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like parsley and mint for a rejuvenating salad that can be enjoyed warm or chilled.
2. **Chickpea and Orzo Soup**: In a hearty broth, blend chickpeas and orzo with vegetables such as carrots, celery, and spinach. Season with garlic, thyme, and bay leaves for a cozy soup that’s perfect for chilly days.
3. **Lemon Herb Orzo with Chickpeas**: Cook orzo and combine it with chickpeas, lemon zest, and juice, along with chopped herbs like dill and basil. This dish can serve as either a side or a main course, delivering a bright and tangy flavor profile.
4. **Spicy Chickpea and Orzo Stew**: Simmer chickpeas and orzo with diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices such as cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. This stew is hearty and comforting, ideal for a cozy dinner.
**Cultural Connections**
Chickpeas and orzo are ingredients with rich histories in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Chickpeas have been grown in these areas for millennia, while orzo is a staple pasta in Italian and Greek cooking. The pairing of these two ingredients honors the abundant culinary traditions that celebrate simple, wholesome foods.
**Conclusion**
Chickpeas and orzo make an exceptional pairing, providing a mix of nutrition, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re aiming to whip up a quick weeknight meal or craft an impressive dish for entertaining, this duo can adapt to fit any occasion. By exploring the various ways to incorporate chickpeas and orzo, you can enjoy a tasty and healthful addition to your culinary repertoire.