Name: Mediterranean Orzo and Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini or pinto beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups fresh spinach; Salt and black pepper to taste

Bright, bold, and beautifully satisfying, this Mediterranean Orzo and Beans dish brings a burst of flavor and color to your plate. With creamy orzo, a medley of hearty beans, and tender spinach, all swirled together in a savory, lightly spiced sauce, it’s comfort food with a Mediterranean twist. Whether you’re craving a warm, one-bowl meal or need a crowd-pleasing vegetarian dish, this recipe fits the bill effortlessly.

This dish is perfect for weeknights or relaxed weekend cooking. It’s budget-friendly, filling, and endlessly customizable with your favorite seasonal veggies. Best of all? It all comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze while keeping the flavors rich and layered. Let’s dive into why this vibrant dish deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Orzo and Beans

Hearty and Wholesome: Loaded with protein-rich beans, tender orzo, and fiber-packed greens, this dish is both comforting and nutritious.
One-Pot Wonder: Less mess, more flavor. Everything simmers in one pot for easy prep and cleanup.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish, a side, or even chilled as a lunchbox-friendly pasta salad.
Packed with Flavor: Olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, and spices come together to infuse every bite with Mediterranean warmth.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting organized before cooking this Mediterranean Orzo and Beans is half the joy. Here are the essential tools that make this dish come together smoothly:

Large Sauté Pan or Dutch Oven: Crucial for building flavor and accommodating the volume of ingredients. The wide surface area allows for better evaporation and sauce thickening.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
Fine Mesh Strainer: Helps rinse beans and drain orzo without losing any ingredients.
Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: Essential for prepping aromatics and vegetables evenly and safely.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Ensures the perfect balance of broth, pasta, and seasonings.

Ingredients for the Mediterranean Orzo and Beans

Orzo Pasta: Acts as the creamy, tender base that absorbs all the savory flavor.
Kidney Beans: Brings deep color and a slightly sweet, earthy flavor. Rich in protein and fiber.
Cannellini or Pinto Beans: Adds a creamy texture and a nutty note to contrast the pasta.
Cherry Tomatoes: Offers natural sweetness and juiciness, balancing the heartiness of the beans.
Spinach: Provides a vibrant green touch and boosts nutrition with iron and antioxidants.
Garlic: Essential for the foundation of Mediterranean flavor.
Onion: Adds depth and sweetness when sautéed.
Vegetable Broth: The flavorful liquid base that cooks the orzo and binds everything together.
Olive Oil: Adds richness and a signature Mediterranean silkiness.
Salt, Black Pepper, Smoked Paprika, and Red Pepper Flakes: For seasoning and a mild kick of heat.

How To Make the Mediterranean Orzo and Beans

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

In a large sauté pan or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, then stir in the garlic. Let the aroma develop for a minute.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Spices

Toss in halved cherry tomatoes, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until tomatoes begin to blister and release their juices, creating a flavorful base.

Step 3: Stir in the Orzo and Broth

Add the dry orzo and stir well to coat it with the flavored oil. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let simmer, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente.

Step 4: Add Beans and Greens

Once the orzo is nearly cooked, fold in the kidney and cannellini (or pinto) beans. Let everything warm through. Stir in fresh spinach at the very end until wilted.

Step 5: Final Seasoning & Serve

Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve and Store Mediterranean Orzo and Beans

This vibrant dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Spoon it into shallow bowls and top with a sprinkle of crumbled feta or a drizzle of lemon-tahini sauce for extra richness. Serve it warm as a hearty main course or alongside grilled chicken or fish for a protein-packed meal. It also works beautifully chilled or at room temperature, making it a great addition to potlucks or lunch prep.

To store leftovers, let the orzo cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to revive the creamy texture. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month, though the texture of the spinach may soften slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to stir frequently while the orzo simmers in broth, and don’t forget to use enough liquid. A nonstick or well-seasoned pan also helps prevent sticking.

Can I use other types of beans?

Absolutely! Black beans, garbanzo beans, or even lentils would all complement the Mediterranean flavors.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes, the recipe is naturally vegan if you skip any optional cheese toppings. Just make sure your broth is vegetable-based.

Can I add protein?

Definitely. Grilled shrimp, lemon chicken, or seared tofu are all excellent add-ins.

What herbs go well with this dish?

Fresh basil, parsley, or oregano add a bright finish. Stir them in right before serving for best flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! It actually gets more flavorful as it sits, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeks or gatherings.

Want More Pasta and Veggie Combo Ideas?

If this Mediterranean Orzo and Beans won your heart, you’ll definitely want to try these next:

Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach — a cozy vegetarian dream.
Lemon Chicken Veggie Orzo Stir Fry — zesty, light, and full of crunch.
Mediterranean White Beans & Greens — simple, wholesome, and satisfying.
Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup — comforting with a spicy twist.
Simple Chicken Thighs With Creamy Mushroom Garlic Sauce — protein-packed and flavor-loaded.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this Mediterranean Orzo and Beans recipe to your Pinterest vegetarian or one-pot board so it’s ready when you are.

And let me know in the comments how you personalized it! Did you add roasted red peppers or swap in kale for spinach? I love seeing the twists you put on my recipes.

Looking for more real-food dishes? Browse my daily creations on Pinterest – Kitchen By Kate.