Creamy Goat Cheese & Roasted Red Pepper Risoni (Orzo)
A comforting and creamy orzo dish featuring roasted red peppers, tangy goat cheese, and fresh basil. This vibrant vegetarian pasta is quick to make and full of Mediterranean flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups orzo (risoni)
- 4 ounces goat cheese
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Handful fresh basil, torn
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes, a pinch (optional)
Instructions
- Cook orzo in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Sauté garlic for 1 minute, then add tomato paste and cook another minute.
- Add chopped roasted red peppers and broth. Simmer for 5 minutes, then blend until smooth if preferred.
- Return sauce to skillet. Stir in hot orzo and goat cheese. Mix until creamy, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Fold in olives and fresh basil. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, topped with extra goat cheese and basil if desired.
Notes
- Use jarred roasted peppers for convenience — drain well before using.
- Stir goat cheese into hot pasta for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for more nutrition.