Smoky Mediterranean Lamb Orzo (Print Version)

Tender lamb, fragrant spices, and orzo combine with fresh veggies in a satisfying Mediterranean-style meal.

# What to Use:

→ Meats

01 - 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 - 1 tbsp smoked paprika

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
06 - 1 medium zucchini, diced
07 - 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
08 - 3.5 oz baby spinach

→ Spices & Seasonings

09 - 1 tsp ground cumin
10 - 1 tsp dried oregano
11 - ½ tsp ground cinnamon
12 - ¼ tsp dried chili flakes (optional)
13 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Grains & Liquids

14 - 1 cup orzo pasta
15 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock
16 - 1 tbsp olive oil

→ Garnishes

17 - ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
18 - Fresh parsley, chopped
19 - Lemon wedges

# How to Prepare:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium-high heat. Season lamb cubes with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear lamb for 3–4 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
02 - Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, red bell pepper, and zucchini; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
03 - Incorporate ground cumin, dried oregano, cinnamon, and chili flakes if using. Cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
04 - Return seared lamb to pot. Add canned tomatoes and stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
05 - Stir in the orzo pasta. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
06 - Fold in baby spinach and cook for 2 minutes until wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
07 - Serve hot, garnished with crumbled feta, chopped parsley, and lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Hearty one-pot Mediterranean meal
  • Rich smoky flavors and tender lamb
02 -
  • For a smokier flavor add a dash of smoked salt or a few drops of liquid smoke
  • Substitute lamb with chicken thighs or keep it vegetarian by using chickpeas
03 -
  • Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent sticking and burning
  • Toast the orzo slightly before adding liquid for a nuttier flavor
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