Go Back Email Link
–+ servings
Ella Cooks

Green Goddess Orzo with Lemon, Feta & Fresh Herbs

Love it? Click to rate
Be the first to rate this recipe!
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.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

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

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Blender or food processor
  • Zester or microplane
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Serving bowl or wide plate

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
    Step 1: Cook the Orzo
    1. Bring a saucepan of salted water to a boil.
    2. Add orzo and cook according to package directions (about 8–10 minutes).
    3. Drain, then stir in olive oil or butter to keep it silky.
    Step 2: Make the Green Sauce
    1. In a blender or food processor, combine:
    2. Spinach, basil, parsley, garlic, olive oil, broth, Parmesan (if using)
    3. Blend until smooth and vibrant green.
    4. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
    Step 3: Combine & Finish
    1. Stir the green sauce into the warm orzo.
    2. Add lemon zest, crumbled feta, and extra olive oil if desired.
    3. Toss gently to coat and serve warm or at room temperature.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 10gFat: 16gFiber: 3g

    Notes

    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

    Tried this recipe?

    Let us know how it was!
    QR Code linking back to recipe