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Lemon Orzo Lentil Pasta

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A bright, one-pot pasta that combines tender lentils and orzo in a tangy lemon-garlic broth for a protein-rich, Mediterranean-inspired weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 1 ½ cups dry orzo pasta
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth, divided
  • 2 cups water (plus more as needed)
  • 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • Zest of 1 large lemon
  • Juice of 2 large lemons (about 6 Tbsp)
  • 2 cups lightly packed baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: ¼ cup crumbled feta or vegan feta for serving

Instructions

  1. Warm the olive oil in a heavy 4-quart pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
  2. Stir in the garlic, oregano, and cumin; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the rinsed lentils, 2 cups broth, and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, for 12 minutes.
  4. Stir in the orzo and remaining 2 cups broth. Return to a gentle boil and cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and the lentils are tender, 8–10 minutes. Add a splash of water if the mixture becomes too thick.
  5. Remove from heat; stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, spinach, and parsley. Season liberally with salt and pepper.
  6. Cover and let stand 2 minutes to wilt the greens. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, topped with optional feta if desired.

Notes

  • Rinse lentils thoroughly to remove dust and improve digestibility.
  • For a gluten-free dish, swap the orzo for gluten-free rice-shaped pasta or short-grain brown rice (increase simmer time as needed).
  • The pasta continues to absorb liquid as it sits; thin with hot water or broth when reheating.
  • For meal prep, store portions in airtight containers up to 4 days; add fresh lemon juice before serving to revive brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon, orzo, lentil, pasta, vegan, one pot, Mediterranean

Find it online: https://recipesfoodeasy.com/lemon-orzo-lentil-pasta/