Name: Greek Orzo with Lemon and Herbs Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: ½ onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 1 tbsp lemon zest (from 1 lemon, reserve ½ tsp for garnish); Fresh dill (optional garnish); Lemon juice, to taste; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for finishing; ¼ tsp salt, plus more to taste; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried dill; ¼ tsp black pepper, plus more to taste; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth

I absolutely adore this Greek Orzo with Lemon and Herbs Recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between bright, fresh flavors and comforting warmth. The combination of lemon zest, fresh herbs, and tender orzo pasta creates a dish that feels both light and satisfying—something I often crave when I want a meal that’s simple yet full of Mediterranean soul. It’s quick to make, full of comforting textures, and can easily be the star or the side on any table.

Why You'll Love This Greek Orzo with Lemon and Herbs Recipe

When I first made this recipe, I was immediately captivated by how the fresh lemon zest and herbs sparkled against the savory richness of the orzo cooked in broth. The flavor profile is bright without overpowering the palate, offering a lovely balance of tart citrus, earthy oregano and dill, and a gentle peppery warmth. This dish always feels like a little celebration of fresh ingredients, and I love how it wakes up my senses.

One of the things I appreciate most about this Greek Orzo with Lemon and Herbs Recipe is how straightforward it is to prepare. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal steps, I can have it on the table in under 15 minutes. That’s a game-changer for busy weeknights when I want something elegant but don’t want to spend ages in the kitchen.

Plus, this recipe is incredibly versatile for many occasions. Whether I’m hosting a relaxed family dinner, bringing a delightful side to a potluck, or simply craving a fresh, homey meal, this orzo hits the mark every time. It’s unique enough to impress but easy enough to become a reliable go-to.

Ingredients You'll Need

A close-up view of a pile of small, oval, pale yellow grains spread on a white marbled surface, showing a smooth and slightly shiny texture with some grains scattered loosely around the main pile. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Greek Orzo with Lemon and Herbs Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient is essential, adding its own burst of flavor, aroma, or texture to craft a dish that feels balanced and vibrant.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Onion: Adds a sweet, soft base flavor when sautéed, building depth.
Garlic: Brings aromatic warmth that complements the herbs beautifully.
Extra virgin olive oil: Provides richness and coats the orzo with a silky texture.
Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the brightness of lemon.
Dried oregano: Introduces classic Mediterranean herbal notes that evoke Greek cuisine.
Dried dill: Offers a fresh, slightly grassy flavor which pairs wonderfully with lemon.
Black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and warmth without overpowering the dish.
Orzo: A tiny pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up all those delicious flavors.
Lemon zest: Infuses the dish with vibrant citrus highlights that brighten every bite.
Vegetable or chicken broth: Cooks the orzo perfectly while layering in savory depth.
Fresh dill (optional garnish): A lovely finishing touch that adds color and freshness.
Lemon juice (to taste): Used at the end for a burst of acidity that lifts the whole dish.

Directions

Step 1: Finely chop the onion and garlic so they cook evenly and release their flavors fully.

Step 2: In a small saucepan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking, to create a flavorful base.

Step 3: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and a pinch of salt; cook gently for about 2 to 3 minutes until the onions turn soft and translucent. This step builds a sweet and aromatic foundation for the orzo.

Step 4: Stir in the dried oregano, dill, and black pepper, followed by the orzo. Toss everything together so the orzo becomes well coated with oil and herbs, which infuses it with lovely flavor before cooking.

Step 5: Add the lemon zest, reserving about half a teaspoon for garnish, then pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 6: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Transfer the orzo to a serving dish, drizzle with a little more olive oil, squeeze fresh lemon juice on top, and garnish with the reserved lemon zest and fresh dill if you have it on hand. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This Greek Orzo with Lemon and Herbs Recipe makes about 4 generous servings, perfect for a family meal or sharing with friends. Prep time is just around 5 minutes since the chopping is quick, and cooking takes approximately 12 minutes, making the total time about 17 minutes. There’s no additional resting time needed, so you can serve it straight from the stove and savor those fresh, vibrant flavors immediately.

How to Serve This Greek Orzo with Lemon and Herbs Recipe

A white bowl with a blue rim holds a dish of small, pale yellow orzo pasta evenly mixed with finely chopped herbs that add small green specks throughout. On one side of the bowl, three thin lemon slices lean slightly against the orzo, with a small bunch of fresh green dill placed beside them. The bowl rests on a white cloth, all set against a white marbled surface. The overall look is fresh and simple, with light colors and a clean presentation. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Whenever I serve this orzo, I like to pair it with grilled meats or seafood, like lemon herb chicken or garlic shrimp, to complement the citrus and herb notes in the dish. It also stands beautifully alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp Greek salad for a light, refreshing meal. The warm, herbaceous orzo adds an inviting texture that contrasts nicely with crunchy greens and juicy grilled bites.

For presentation, I love sprinkling fresh dill and a little extra lemon zest right before serving—it makes the dish look so vibrant and fresh on the plate. If I’m serving a crowd, I sometimes place it in a wide, shallow bowl so everyone can easily scoop their portion and admire the lovely colors.

In terms of beverages, a chilled Greek white wine like Assyrtiko or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the lemony brightness and herbs. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a fresh mint lemonade can really enhance the fresh flavors. I often serve this dish warm or at room temperature, which makes it ideal for both intimate dinners and laid-back al fresco gatherings.

Variations

I love experimenting with this Greek Orzo with Lemon and Herbs Recipe to suit different moods and dietary preferences. For example, if you’re gluten-free, you can swap the orzo for a quinoa or gluten-free pasta alternative and achieve a similar comforting texture without compromising flavor. It’s such an adaptable base that holds up well to substitutions.

If you want a vegan version, just stick with vegetable broth and skip any dairy garnishes, which I usually don’t include anyway. You can also add more herbs like parsley or mint depending on what you have on hand for a slightly different herbal twist. For a heartier meal, I sometimes stir in cooked chickpeas or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra texture and a pop of sweetness.

Another fun way to change things up is to toast the orzo in the olive oil a bit longer for a nuttier flavor before adding the broth. Or cook it in a mix of broth and a splash of white wine to add even more depth. These little changes can transform the dish while keeping its essence intact.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, I recommend storing the orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Using a glass or BPA-free plastic container helps maintain freshness and prevents any flavors from being absorbed by other foods in the fridge.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture of the orzo might become a bit softer upon thawing. To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. It’s best used within 1 to 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

When reheating, I find the stovetop works best to gently warm the orzo without drying it out—just add a splash of broth or water, cover loosely, and heat over low until warmed through. Microwave reheating can work too, but use short intervals and stir occasionally to avoid hot spots. Avoid overheating as the lemon and herbs are most vibrant fresh, so gentle warming preserves their brightness.

FAQs

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in this Greek Orzo with Lemon and Herbs Recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs like dill and oregano can be used instead of dried. Since fresh herbs are more delicate, add them towards the end of cooking or as a garnish to maintain their brightness and flavor intensity.

Is orzo gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat and contains gluten. If you require a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free orzo alternatives made from rice or corn, or substitute with quinoa for a similar texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare most of the ingredients ahead, but I suggest cooking the orzo just before serving to keep its texture fresh. If you make it in advance, store it properly and reheat gently as described to maintain the best flavors.

What broth do you recommend using?

I usually use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or chicken broth for more richness, depending on what I have. Both work beautifully and infuse the orzo with delicious savory notes.

How can I make this dish more filling?

Adding protein like grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or chickpeas boosts this dish into a full meal. You can also mix in roasted vegetables or a handful of spinach toward the end of cooking for added nutrients and texture.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Greek Orzo with Lemon and Herbs Recipe as much as I do. It’s one of those dishes that feels special yet accessible, full of bright flavors and comforting textures that suit so many occasions. Once you try it, I think it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen too—perfect for when you want something simple, fresh, and utterly delicious.