Refresh your family’s menu with this delightful Orzo Verde, a dish that’s as vibrant and joyful as it is simple to make. It brings together tender-crisp vegetables, fresh mint, and savory pesto for a meal that is light, satisfying, and full of life. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lovely, packable lunch.
🕒 TIME
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total: 25 min
👨👩👧👦 Servings: 4
🛒 INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup edible-podded peas (snow peas or sugar snap peas), trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2–3 tbsp green pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- A few fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- (Optional) A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for serving
👩🍳 PREPARATION
- Cook the orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set it aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: While the orzo is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini, red bell pepper, and peas. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still have a nice, crisp bite.
- Combine everything: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the green pesto and the finely chopped mint leaves, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
- Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to your taste. You can serve this dish warm right away, or let it cool to room temperature for a delicious pasta salad. Garnish with a few extra mint leaves or a sprinkle of Parmesan if you like.
💡 Vitalicious Tip:
This dish is delicious served warm as a light main course, or chilled as a refreshing pasta salad for lunchboxes or picnics. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits.
💚 NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS
- A Rainbow of Nutrients: Filled with zucchini, red peppers, and peas, this dish offers a wonderful variety of vitamins and antioxidants to help your family thrive.
- Energizing & Light: The combination of pasta and fresh vegetables provides a great source of steady energy without feeling heavy, making it perfect for an active day.
- Quick and Wholesome: This meal comes together in under 30 minutes, proving that nourishing, homemade food can be fast and family-friendly.
🌸 VARIATION / OPTION
For an extra boost of protein and healthy fats, add a handful of toasted pine nuts or some crumbled feta cheese just before serving. Both add a wonderful texture and flavor.
🌞 SERVING SUGGESTION
Serve the Orzo Verde in beautiful, wide bowls to show off all the vibrant colors. A final drizzle of good olive oil and a few fresh mint leaves on top make it look as good as it tastes—your perfect Mama Vitalicious moment of simple, colorful nourishment. 💚
Discover more healthy and family-friendly ideas in our Vita-Meals section!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Orzo Verde a main dish or a side dish?
It works beautifully as both. Serve it as a light, satisfying main for lunch or dinner, or pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a more complete meal.
Can I make this recipe without pesto?
Yes! If you don’t have pesto, try a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of oregano. It gives the dish a bright Mediterranean flavor.
How can I make this recipe more filling?
You can stir in extra ingredients like cooked lentils, quinoa, or roasted chickpeas. These add heartiness while keeping the dish nutritious and plant-forward.
What if I don’t like mint?
You can skip it entirely or replace it with basil, cilantro, or parsley. Each herb gives the dish its own personality.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen peas or mixed veggies work very well. Sauté them just until heated through so they stay vibrant and tasty.
Is this recipe good for picky eaters?
Definitely! Its mild pesto flavor and small pasta shape make it easy for kids to enjoy. You can also blend the pesto into the pasta more thoroughly if they prefer fewer visible “green bits.”
Does it support immunity?
Zucchini, bell peppers, and peas are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that help protect your body and support overall wellness.
