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Squash Zucchini Parmesan Orzo

A healthy and delicious dish combining squash, zucchini, and orzo, perfect for meal prep and packed with protein and fiber.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Vegetarian
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Vegetables
  • 2 medium zucchini, diced
  • 2 medium yellow squash, diced
  • 1/2 small white onion, roughly chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup peas, fresh or frozen
  • 2 tablespoons minced chives
Seasoning and Oil
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt divided
  • 3/4 teaspoon black pepper divided
Grains and Dairy
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan

Method
 

Roasting Vegetables
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced zucchini and yellow squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper on a sheet pan. Spread the vegetables into a single layer. Roast for 25–30 minutes until lightly golden at the edges.
Cooking Orzo
  1. In a large sauté pan or skillet, warm another tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them until they start to soften, about 4–5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add the orzo to the pan, making sure to coat it in the sautéed onions, and toast for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in the low-sodium vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the orzo has absorbed most of the broth and is al dente.
  5. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the peas and grated Parmesan cheese. If using frozen peas, they will quickly thaw as you stir them in.
  6. Finally, fold in the roasted squash and zucchini along with the minced chives.

Notes

Squash Zucchini Parmesan Orzo can be served warm or cooled as a salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. For freezing, cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.