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Baked Feta Orzo Spinach

A delightful Mediterranean dish featuring creamy feta, tender orzo, fresh spinach, and roasted cherry tomatoes, perfect for family dinners and potlucks.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.25 cups orzo pasta
  • 7 ounces feta cheese block Star ingredient
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened Adds creaminess
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For drizzling and flavor
  • 5 ounces baby spinach Freshness and color
  • 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced Adds sweetness
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced For aroma
  • 9 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved Sweet and juicy
  • 1 lemon, zest and juice Brightens the dish
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano For Mediterranean flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Optional hint of heat
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste Essential for flavor
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley For garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large ovenproof baking dish and place the feta cheese block in the center.
  3. Surround the feta with halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and minced garlic. Drizzle with remaining olive oil, and sprinkle oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  4. Roast in the oven for 25 minutes or until feta becomes soft and tomatoes are blistered.
  5. Meanwhile, cook the orzo pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Save about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later, then drain.
  6. Remove the baking dish from the oven and add cream cheese, lemon zest, and juice to the roasted vegetables and feta; stir gently.
Finishing
  1. Toss in the spinach and cooked orzo, mixing gently until the spinach wilts. Use reserved pasta water as needed for texture.
  2. Taste and adjust seasonings; garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot or warm.

Notes

For additional flavor, marinate feta beforehand or add other vegetables like bell peppers. This dish pairs well with a green salad or grilled proteins.