Protein Packed Green Goddess Orzo

This dish is bright, green, and full of life thanks to a generous mix of roasted broccoli, fresh herbs, edamame, and leafy greens. You get fiber, minerals, plant-based protein, and that steady, sustained energy you feel when a meal actually loves you back. This is the kind of dish that works for busy weeknights, meal prep, or those moments when you want something cozy without feeling weighed down. One bowl and you’ll understand why this has become a regular in my rotation!

Ingredients

  • shallot

    finely chopped

    1
  • garlic cloves

    minced

    3
  • broccolini
    2 bunches
  • gluten free orzo

    dried

    1 c
  • vegetable stock
    1 ½ c
  • edamame
    1 c
  • tahini
    2 t
  • stalks of kale

    roughly chppped

    2
  • lemon juice
    2 t
  • white miso paste
    2 t
  • pickled onion
  • lemon zest to serve
  • olive oil

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 400°F. Rinse the broccolini, place it on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 15 minutes. Let it cool, then finely chop.

  2. 2

    While the broccoli roasts, heat olive oil in a large wide pan over medium-low heat. Add the chopped shallot and a pinch of salt and cook for 5–6 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 2 minutes more. Add the orzo and toast it for 2–3 minutes.Pour in the low-sodium stock, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, or 2–3 minutes less than the package time, until the orzo is tender but still a bit soupy.

  3. 3

    Blanch the kale in boiling water, then immediately transfer it to ice water to cool. Drain well. Blend the kale with the miso, lemon juice, and a splash of water until smooth. Season to taste and set aside.

  4. 4

    Turn off the heat under the orzo. Stir in the edamame and the kale miso sauce. Fold in the tahini and the chopped roasted broccoli. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve in bowls topped with lemon zest and an extra drizzle of tahini!

About this Recipe

Discover the Delight of Protein Packed Green Goddess Orzo

Embrace a meal that truly nourishes with our Protein Packed Green Goddess Orzo. This vibrant, healthful dish is a celebration of fresh, whole ingredients, designed to make you feel good from the inside out. Forget heavy, complicated meals – this recipe delivers on flavor, nutrition, and ease, making it perfect for busy weeknights or healthy meal prep.

What makes this Green Goddess Orzo so special? It's all about that incredible combination of flavors and textures. We start with tender orzo pasta, then load it with perfectly roasted broccolini, sweet edamame, and nutrient-dense kale. The magic truly happens with our unique Green Goddess-inspired sauce, a creamy, savory blend powered by tahini, white miso paste, and bright lemon juice. This creates a deeply satisfying, umami-rich experience that coats every grain of orzo and every tender vegetable.

This isn't just a delicious pasta dish; it's a powerhouse of nutrition. You'll get plenty of plant-based protein from the edamame, fiber, and essential minerals from the leafy greens and broccoli, providing that sustained energy you crave without feeling weighed down. Each bite offers a burst of freshness, elevated by the zing of pickled onions and aromatic lemon zest as a garnish. Whether you're seeking a cozy, comforting bowl or a bright, energizing lunch, this healthy orzo recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen rotation.

Frequently Asked Questions