One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan)

Are you on the lookout for a satisfying, healthy, and simple dish that can be whipped up in no time? Look no further! This One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan) is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that not only pleases the palate but also leaves you with just one pot to clean. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with nutrients. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead, this recipe is all about making your life easier while keeping your taste buds happy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan) is the epitome of comfort food made healthy. The combination of creamy non-dairy milk, earthy artichokes, and vibrant spinach creates a dish that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious. Plus, it’s vegan and packed with protein, thanks to the addition of chickpeas. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, and the best part? You don’t have to stand over the stove stirring for hours. Just toss everything in one pot, let it simmer, and voilà!

What Goes In

• 1 cup water – To get things started and create the perfect cooking environment for the orzo.
• 5 oz (142 grams) baby spinach – Fresh and nutritious, adding a pop of color and health benefits.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness to the dish.
• 1 large shallot, fine dice – A sweet onion flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better!
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast – Adds a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – For an extra layer of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – A little more garlic never hurts.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest – Brightens up the dish with a touch of citrus.
• ½ teaspoon ground chilies or chili flakes, optional – For those who like a little heat.
• 1 tablespoon light miso – Adds depth and umami flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – A tangy touch that elevates the dish.
• 8 oz (227 grams) dry orzo pasta – The star of the show, providing texture and heartiness.
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas – For protein and fiber.
• 2 cups chopped artichoke hearts from a can/jar – A delicious, slightly tangy addition.
• Sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste – For seasoning.
• 3 cups vegetable stock – The flavorful liquid that brings everything together.
• ½ cup unsweetened rich non-dairy milk, such as cashew – For creaminess without the dairy.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – To finish the dish with brightness.
• 1 teaspoon vegan Worcestershire sauce – A unique flavor enhancer.

Tools of the Trade

• Large pot or Dutch oven – Perfect for making this one-pot wonder.
• Stirring spoon – For combining all the delicious ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure perfect ingredient ratios.
• Knife and cutting board – For chopping shallots and garlic.

Step-by-Step: One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan)

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced shallots and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients

Stir in the nutritional yeast, onion powder, garlic powder, lemon zest, and optional ground chilies or chili flakes. This will create a lovely aromatic base for your dish.

Step 3: Incorporate the Miso and Mustard

Add the light miso and Dijon mustard to the pot, stirring well to combine. This will give a beautiful depth of flavor to the dish.

Step 4: Add the Orzo and Chickpeas

Stir in the dry orzo pasta and cooked chickpeas. Mix everything thoroughly so that the orzo is well coated with the flavorful mixture.

Step 5: Pour in the Stock and Water

Add the vegetable stock and water to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked al dente.

Step 6: Add the Spinach and Artichokes

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the chopped artichoke hearts and baby spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.

Step 7: Finish with Creaminess

Stir in the non-dairy milk, lemon juice, and vegan Worcestershire sauce. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Give everything a good mix and adjust seasonings as desired.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the creamy orzo into bowls and enjoy your delicious One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan). It’s perfect as is, or topped with some extra lemon zest or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added flavor!

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

• Substitute quinoa for orzo for a different grain option.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
• Incorporate different greens like kale or Swiss chard.
• Use white beans instead of chickpeas for a variation in texture.

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

This One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan) is highly customizable; feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. The dish is quite forgiving and can handle various vegetables, so if you have leftover veggies in your fridge, toss them in! This recipe also works well as a base; you can easily add in your favorite proteins or spices.

How to Store & Reheat

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable stock or non-dairy milk to loosen up the orzo as needed. This dish also freezes well; just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

Ask & Learn

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the orzo pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

What can I substitute for nutritional yeast?

If you don’t have nutritional yeast, you can use vegan cheese shreds or omit it altogether, though the flavor will change slightly.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat. You can also try adding diced jalapeños for an extra layer of spice.

Is there a way to add more protein?

Absolutely! You can add more chickpeas or try incorporating tofu or tempeh for a protein boost.

Make It Tonight

There you have it—your guide to creating a delicious One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan) that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With minimal prep and cleanup, this recipe is a true winner for busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, you can count on this dish to deliver both flavor and satisfaction. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of creamy, dreamy goodness that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!