Back to Recipe

Orzo Pasta with Tomatoes, Basil and Parmesan

Here's how you make Orzo Pasta with Tomatoes, Basil and Parmesan
Pause Continue Reading
  • Servings: 4
  • Prep: 5m
  • Cook: 15m
  • The following recipe serves 4 people.

Ingredients

The ingredients are:
  • 8 ounces dry orzo pasta, dry
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, depending on how spicy you like the pasta
  • 12 ounces tomatoes, chopped (2 medium or 12 to 15 cherry tomatoes)
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded plus more for serving
  • 1 cup basil leaves, torn into pieces
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
We recommend you get your ingredients ready before you start cooking. Once you're ready, here are the steps to making this delicious recipe

How to Make

  • Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the orzo and cook according to the package directions (usually 8 to 10 minutes).

  • Step 2: Before draining the cooked orzo, reserve 1/3 cup of the pasta water (use this to make the sauce).

  • Step 3: Add olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes to a large, deep skillet. Turn to medium heat.

  • Step 4: When the oil bubbles around the garlic, add the cooked orzo pasta, tomatoes, basil, and parmesan cheese.

  • Step 5: Pour in two tablespoons of the reserved pasta water and cook, stirring often, for one minute. Over the minute, the sauce should begin to coat the pasta. If it seems dry, add a splash more of the reserved pasta water and cook a few more seconds.

  • Step 6: Taste for seasoning and adjust with a bit of salt if needed.

  • Step 7: Serve with extra basil, parmesan, and fresh ground black pepper on top.


We hope you enjoy this recipe!

This page is built for your convenience in the kitchen.

If you want helpful tools, tips and recipes from our community of real cooks, please consider signing up.

Oh... And one more thing... We also have some pretty wild forums.