A quick and delicious 20-minute meal! Chickpeas and orzo enveloped in a rich, creamy, flavor-packed tomato sauce.
This dish is brought to you by DeLallo! ♡
Marry Me Orzo is Absolutely Delicious.
The last occasion I prepared this, I must have consumed half of it on my own.
Here’s what makes this irresistible to me:
- The combination of shallot, garlic, and thyme. Mic drop.
- A creamy tomato sauce.
- Little chewy, carby, textured morsels that are delightfully uniform in size – the orzo and chickpeas just naturally belong together.
The way it binds, the creamy richness, bold flavor with the shallot, garlic, and fresh thyme. UGH.
We utilize DeLallo products frequently in this kitchen – I always enjoy their orzo (and my friend swears by their GF orzo) and their Castelvetrano olive oil in the squeeze bottle. Additionally, for this recipe, I really appreciate all their assorted jarred tomato products to include – sun-dried tomatoes if you prefer to keep it traditional to the Marry Me flavor profile, or the fresh tomato bruschetta (my personal favorite), the calabrian chiles for a unique twist, or the roasted tomatoes for a chunkier choice.
Folks, a standout aspect worth mentioning: this meal comes together in just about 20 minutes. Maybe 30 at most. It’s straightforward, minimal cutting board action, yet still packs plenty of veggies and protein. This dish exudes a hint of elegance but is perfectly suited for a weeknight.
I hope you enjoy it.
(If you’re looking for an alternate protein option – like chicken – the original Marry Me Chicken is available for you!)
Watch Me Create This Dish
Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo
Total Time:
25 minutesYield:
4–6 servings 1x
Description
A quick and delicious 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: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic; sauté for 2-3 minutes until tender and aromatic. Incorporate the chickpeas and tomato paste; continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until a deeper red hue appears.
- Cook Orzo: Introduce the orzo, chicken broth, and thyme sprigs; bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 7-9 minutes.
- Finish Sauce: Discard the thyme sprigs. Maintain low heat. Mix in the cream and simmer for 2-3 more minutes, until it reaches a creamy, luscious consistency. 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 (thyme is my preference) 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 Exquisite Orzo Recipes
Appreciation to DeLallo for supporting this recipe!
**Chickpeas and Orzo: An Ideal Culinary Combination**
Chickpeas and orzo might not appear to be a conventional pairing in the culinary realm, yet their union creates a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can elevate any dish. Both components are staples in Mediterranean cooking, celebrated for their adaptability and nutritional advantages, making them an excellent duo for numerous recipes.
**Nutritional Titans**
Chickpeas, often referred to as garbanzo beans, are a plentiful source of protein, fiber, and vital vitamins and minerals like folate, iron, and phosphorus. They hold particular value in vegetarian and vegan meals owing to their capacity to supply plant-based protein. Orzo, a pasta form resembling large rice grains, is usually crafted from durum wheat and yields carbohydrates, essential for energy. Together, chickpeas and orzo form a well-rounded meal that provides a complete protein profile when paired with other ingredients, making them a fantastic choice for anyone aiming for a nourishing diet.
**Culinary Diversity**
The gentle, nutty note of chickpeas pairs well with the subtle taste of orzo, enabling them to mesh effortlessly into various dishes. This combination can shine in salads, soups, and main dishes, providing limitless avenues for culinary innovation.
1. **Salads**: A chickpea and orzo salad can serve as a refreshing and fulfilling meal. By incorporating elements like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and feta cheese, all dressed with olive oil and lemon juice, you create a lively dish perfect for a light lunch or a dinner side.
2. **Soups**: Adding chickpeas and orzo into soups enhances heartiness and texture. A Mediterranean-style soup based on vegetable or chicken broth, flavored with herbs like oregano and thyme, can be brightened with spinach, carrots, and a splash of lemon.
3. **Main Courses**: For a more filling dish, combine chickpeas and orzo with roasted veggies and a protein like grilled chicken or tofu. Including spices such as cumin and coriander can add warmth and complexity, leading to a robust and flavorful experience.
**Cultural Importance**
Chickpeas and orzo are deeply embedded in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern culinary traditions. Chickpeas have been cultivated in the Middle East for millennia, while orzo is a fundamental component in Italian and Greek cuisine. Their combination exemplifies the rich culinary heritage of these areas, where basic yet wholesome ingredients are transformed into delightful and nourishing dishes.
**Conclusion**
Chickpeas and orzo form an exceptional culinary duo, offering both nutritional advantages and culinary versatility. Whether employed in salads, soups, or main courses, their union enhances any dish with flavor, texture, and a hint of Mediterranean elegance. For those eager to broaden their culinary experiences, chickpeas and orzo present a delightful and healthy option guaranteed to satisfy any palette.