When the days are warm and you want something fresh but still filling, this is my go-to.

This One-Pot Lemon Chickpea Orzo is creamy (without cream!), citrusy, and packed with plant-based protein and fiber.
It’s light enough for summer, cozy enough to satisfy, and made in one pot — because no one wants to spend all night cleaning up.

Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, picnic-friendly side, or meal prep lunch that actually tastes good cold.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup dry orzo (whole wheat or gluten-free if needed)

• 1½ cups veggie broth

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 2 cups baby spinach

• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternative

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: chopped fresh parsley or basil, red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Sauté garlic
   In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Add orzo and chickpeas
   Stir in the dry orzo and chickpeas. Toast for 1–2 minutes, then pour in the broth and bring to a simmer.

3. Cook until tender
   Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.

4. Add lemon & spinach
   Stir in lemon zest, juice, and spinach. Cook 1–2 more minutes until spinach is wilted.

5. Finish with yogurt
   Remove from heat and stir in yogurt. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add red pepper flakes if you want a little heat!

6. Serve warm or chilled
   Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately — or chill and enjoy as a cold summer lunch.

Sarah’s Tips:

• Make it dairy-free: Use coconut yogurt or any plant-based plain yogurt.

• Add more greens: Stir in peas, chopped zucchini, or arugula.

• Protein boost: Top with a soft-boiled egg or grilled chicken for extra staying power.

• Meal prep win: Keeps great in the fridge for 3–4 days.

Flavorful Conclusion:

This One-Pot Lemon Chickpea Orzo is light, creamy, and packed with plant-powered goodness. It’s the kind of clean comfort food that’s just right for summer — fresh, fast, and made with simple pantry staples. Whether you eat it hot or cold, this one’s a keeper.

Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):

• Calories: 370

• Protein: 15g

• Carbs: 40g

• Fat: 14g

• Fiber: 7g

• Sugar: 3g