Lemon Orzo with Roasted Zucchini

Today on the Takrecipe website, we’re diving into a bright and refreshing dish that perfectly balances zesty flavors with wholesome ingredients — Lemon Orzo with Roasted Zucchini. This vegetarian-friendly recipe is a light yet satisfying meal, ideal for warmer months or anytime you crave something fresh and vibrant. With tender orzo pasta, caramelized zucchini, and a burst of lemon, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the zucchini

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the sliced zucchini on a baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly and spread the slices out so they aren’t overlapping. Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the zucchini is golden and slightly crispy on the edges.

Step 2: Cook the orzo

While the zucchini is roasting, bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8–10 minutes, until tender. Drain the orzo and return it to the pot.

Step 3: Flavor the orzo

In the same pot with the orzo, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well to coat the pasta. If using, stir in the red pepper flakes and Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is combined and the cheese begins to melt into the orzo, creating a creamy texture.

Step 4: Combine and serve

Gently fold in the roasted zucchini and chopped herbs. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired. Serve warm, garnished with extra herbs or cheese if you like.

Tip 1: Don’t overcrowd the zucchini

🟢 Make sure the zucchini slices are in a single layer on the baking sheet so they roast properly and get crispy rather than steaming.

Tip 2: Use fresh lemon juice

🟢 Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings a brighter, more vibrant flavor than bottled lemon juice.

Tip 3: Add protein if desired

🟢 For a heartier meal, top the dish with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

Other food you must try:

• Fårikål recipe
• Greek cucumber salad
• Greek Astakomakaronada
• Cepelinai recipe
• Baati Chokha recipe
• Knafeh recipe
• Indian Dhokla recipe
• Chicken Souvlaki