Mediterranean Orzo and Beans (Healthy One-Pot Dinner)

This Mediterranean orzo and beans recipe gives you a cozy, creamy, one-pot dinner that’s quick, nourishing, and made entirely with simple pantry staples.

For more easy one-skillet dinners, check out our Mediterranean lentils and rice, lentils and orzo, chickpeas and orzo, and black beans and rice.

Find complete ingredient list, quantities, and substitutions in the recipe box at the bottom of the page.

• Olive oil: Extra virgin adds depth and richness. Substitute with avocado oil or skip and sauté with a splash of broth for a lighter healthy orzo recipe.
• Onion: Yellow or white onions both work. Substitute with shallots for a sweeter, softer base.
• Carrots: They add natural sweetness. Swap with celery, zucchini, or a mix of chopped veggies for a twist on this Mediterranean recipe.
• Bay leaves: They build aromatic flavor. Replace with thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning.
• Dried oregano: Essential for that Mediterranean profile. Substitute with mixed Italian herbs or marjoram.
• Red pepper flakes: For gentle heat. Swap with smoked paprika or chili powder.
• Tomato paste: Adds richness and color. Replace with crushed tomatoes or a spoonful of marinara if needed.
• Beans: Kidney and pinto beans are hearty. Substitute with cannellini, chickpeas, or black beans for a similar budget friendly vegetarian meal.
• Cherry tomatoes: Add freshness and acidity. Replace with a small can of diced tomatoes or chopped Roma tomatoes.
• Broth: Vegetable broth keeps it light; chicken broth adds coziness. Water works in a pinch—just adjust salt.
• Orzo: Creamy and quick-cooking. Substitute with ditalini, small shells, or even cooked rice stirred in at the end.
• Baby spinach: Wilts beautifully. Swap with chopped kale, Swiss chard, or frozen spinach.

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 4–5 minutes, until the veggies start to soften and the tomatoes release some juices. This builds the base flavor for this cozy one pot orzo recipe.

Step 2. Add Garlic, Herbs, and Tomato Paste

Stir in the grated garlic, bay leaves, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and deepen the flavor. Everything should smell warm and fragrant.

Pour in the beans, broth, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir, bring it to a boil, then lower the heat. Let it simmer for 10 minutes so the flavors meld together into a rich, comforting base.

Step 4. Cook the Orzo

Add the orzo and keep the pot on a gentle simmer for 8–10 minutes. Stir often so it doesn’t stick. Add more broth or hot water as needed to keep the dish creamy, like a loose risotto.

Step 5. Add Spinach and Finish

Stir in the spinach and cook for about 1 minute, just until wilted. Turn off the heat while the orzo is still slightly firm—it will continue cooking as it rests. Taste, adjust the salt, and finish with a grating of parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil.

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