Creamy Mediterranean Orzo with Spinach & Feta (One-Pan, Cozy & Flavorful)

This Creamy Mediterranean Orzo with Spinach & Feta is a comforting one-pan meal made with tender orzo pasta, wilted spinach, and tangy feta in a light, creamy Mediterranean-style sauce. Cozy yet fresh, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without feeling heavy.

Serve this dish as a main or pair it with proteins like Mediterranean Shrimp Skillet with Garlic & Lemon or Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls for a complete Mediterranean dinner. It also works beautifully alongside lighter sides such as Cucumber Tomato Olive Salad with Lemon Dressing, and finishes perfectly with Greek Yogurt with Honey, Walnuts & Berries for a balanced Mediterranean-style meal from start to finish.

Why You’ll Love This

• Creamy, comforting orzo with bright Mediterranean flavor

• Spinach and feta add freshness, color, and balance

• One-pan dish made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients

• Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a cozy vegetarian meal

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 18–20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Servings: 4

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 360–390 kcal

• Protein: 12–14 g

• Total Fat: 16–18 g

  • Saturated Fat: 5 g

• Carbohydrates: 40–44 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Sugars: 4 g

• Sodium: 520–600 mg

Values vary based on dairy choice and add-ins.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry orzo pasta

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ small onion or shallot, finely diced

• 2½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

• ½ cup milk or half-and-half

• 2 cups fresh spinach

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

• Zest of 1 lemon + 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional add-ins: cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, fresh parsley, or dill

Instructions

1. Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Toast the orzo: Add orzo to the skillet and stir for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast.

3. Simmer: Pour in broth, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed (10–12 minutes).

4. Make it creamy: Stir in milk and cook 2–3 minutes until creamy.

5. Finish: Fold in spinach until wilted. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and feta.

6. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Extra protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

• Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk and omit feta or use a dairy-free alternative.

• More veggies: Stir in zucchini, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes.

• Consistency: Add a splash of broth if the orzo thickens too much while resting.

FAQ

Is this Mediterranean Diet friendly?

Yes. It uses olive oil, greens, whole ingredients, and modest dairy—core Mediterranean principles.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best fresh. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Absolutely. Thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding.

What can I substitute for feta?

oat cheese or ricotta salata works well for a similar tangy finish.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Mediterranean Orzo with Spinach & Feta is the kind of recipe that feels both cozy and fresh—simple enough for weeknights, elegant enough for guests. Whether served on its own or paired with grilled proteins and salads, it’s a comforting Mediterranean dish you’ll want to keep in regular rotation.