Creamy, herby orzo pasta tossed in a vibrant green sauce made from spinach, basil, and lemon, then finished with crumbled feta and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s zesty, cozy, and absolutely delicious
Why You’ll Love It
This Green Goddess Orzo delivers all the creamy comfort of a risotto with a fraction of the effort—and so much fresh, zippy flavor. The bright green sauce, made with blended spinach, herbs, garlic, and lemon, is stirred into warm orzo for a texture that’s rich but light, hearty yet fresh. Finished with salty feta and lots of lemon zest, it’s a 20-minute meal that feels spa-day fancy.
It’s perfect as a vegetarian main, a light lunch, or a stunning side for salmon, shrimp, or grilled chicken.
The name “Green Goddess” comes from the vibrant green herb and spinach sauce that gives this dish its fresh, radiant look and feel. It’s creamy, zesty, and nourishing—the kind of meal that feels just a little elevated and full of glow-worthy ingredients, earning its goddess title.
Timings & Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 (as a side) or 2 generous mains
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Blender or food processor
- Zester or microplane
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Serving bowl or wide plate
Ingredients
For the orzo base:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- ½ cup crumbled feta
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Green Goddess Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh spinach (lightly packed)
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or chives
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup vegetable or chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
- Bring a saucepan of salted water to a boil.
- Add orzo and cook according to package directions (about 8–10 minutes).
- Drain, then stir in olive oil or butter to keep it silky.
Step 2: Make the Green Sauce
- In a blender or food processor, combine:
- Spinach, basil, parsley, garlic, olive oil, broth, Parmesan (if using)
- Blend until smooth and vibrant green.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
Step 3: Combine & Finish
- Stir the green sauce into the warm orzo.
- Add lemon zest, crumbled feta, and extra olive oil if desired.
- Toss gently to coat and serve warm or at room temperature.
Optional Add-Ons
- Top with toasted pine nuts or pistachios
- Add roasted zucchini, asparagus, or peas
- Stir in grilled shrimp or shredded rotisserie chicken for protein
Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
Green Goddess Orzo with Lemon, Feta & Fresh Herbs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a saucepan of salted water to a boil.
- Add orzo and cook according to package directions (about 8–10 minutes).
- Drain, then stir in olive oil or butter to keep it silky.
- In a blender or food processor, combine:
- Spinach, basil, parsley, garlic, olive oil, broth, Parmesan (if using)
- Blend until smooth and vibrant green.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
- Stir the green sauce into the warm orzo.
- Add lemon zest, crumbled feta, and extra olive oil if desired.
- Toss gently to coat and serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition
Notes
- Top with toasted pine nuts or pistachios
- Add roasted zucchini, asparagus, or peas
- Stir in grilled shrimp or shredded rotisserie chicken for protein
