Name: Eggplant Parmesan Orzo: One Pot Wonder
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 tbsp olive oil – divided; 1 medium eggplant – cut into large cubes; 3 garlic cloves – minced; 1 shallot – finely chopped; 1 tsp black pepper – more for serving; ½ tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves – more for serving; 1 tbsp low sodium soy sauce; 12 ounces orzo; 3 ¾ cups chicken broth; 3 tbsp tomato paste; 4 ounces sun-dried tomatoes – drained; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2.5 ounces grated Parmesan; chili flakes – for serving

Description

Eggplant Parmesan Orzo is a flavorful one-pot dish combining tender eggplant, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo pasta in a savory tomato and chicken broth base. Enhanced with Parmesan, garlic, thyme, and a hint of lemon, this hearty, comforting recipe delivers rich Italian-inspired flavors with simple, easy-step cooking. Perfect for a wholesome meal in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients

3 tbsp olive oil – divided
1 medium eggplant – cut into large cubes
3 garlic cloves – minced
1 shallot – finely chopped
1 tsp black pepper – more for serving
½ tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves – more for serving
1 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
12 ounces orzo
3 ¾ cups chicken broth
3 tbsp tomato paste
4 ounces sun-dried tomatoes – drained
2 tbsp lemon juice
2.5 ounces grated Parmesan
chili flakes – for serving

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Instructions

Prepare ingredients before cooking: chop thyme leaves, mince garlic, finely chop shallot, cube eggplant, chop sun-dried tomatoes.
Heat 1.5 tbsp olive oil in a large high-sided skillet over medium heat. Add eggplant and cook until it starts to brown, about 2 minutes.
Add remaining olive oil, cook until eggplant softens, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and shallot, sauté for 2 minutes.
Stir in black pepper, thyme, and soy sauce. Add orzo and stir to combine.
Pour in half of the chicken broth and add tomato paste, stirring until dissolved. Add sun-dried tomatoes and remaining broth. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes until orzo is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice and Parmesan until silky.
Serve topped with freshly ground black pepper, chili flakes, and extra fresh thyme.

Notes

Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Use gluten-free orzo or rice for gluten sensitivities. Make-ahead: prepare orzo portion and sautéed vegetables ahead; assemble and simmer before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If orzo is mushy, reduce cooking time next time and monitor liquid levels closely.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and Simmering
Cuisine: Italian