Description
This Roasted Cauliflower Orzo Bowl is a zesty, wholesome weeknight dinner delight — filled with caramelized cauliflower, bright lemony orzo, and a touch of creamy feta. It’s the perfect blend of Mediterranean freshness and comforting satisfaction.
Ingredients
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tbsp toasted pine nuts or almonds (optional)
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for finishing)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on the baking sheet.
3. Roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and crispy on the edges.
4. Meanwhile, cook the orzo in vegetable broth according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, roasted cauliflower, red onion, parsley, lemon zest, and juice.
6. Drizzle with extra olive oil and toss to coat.
7. Top with crumbled feta and toasted nuts, if using.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature for a refreshing Mediterranean-style bowl.
Notes
Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra protein.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of orzo for a gluten-free option.
A drizzle of tahini or yogurt dressing adds extra creaminess.
Perfect for meal prep — it tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasted
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: roasted cauliflower orzo bowl, lemon orzo, vegetarian dinner, healthy mediterranean bowl, weeknight dinner, feta orzo salad