Smoky Mediterranean Lamb Orzo

A hearty one-pot dish featuring tender lamb, aromatic spices, smoky flavors, and orzo pasta, perfect for a comforting family meal with a Mediterranean flair.

I first enjoyed this recipe on a cold evening and it quickly became a family favorite for its rich taste and easy preparation.

Ingredients

• 500 g (1 lb) boneless lamb shoulder or leg: cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) cubes
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika:
• 1 medium red onion: finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves: minced
• 1 red bell pepper: diced
• 1 medium zucchini: diced
• 400 g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes:
• 100 g (3.5 oz) baby spinach:
• 1 tsp ground cumin:
• 1 tsp dried oregano:
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon:
• ¼ tsp dried chili flakes (optional):
• Salt and black pepper: to taste
• 200 g (1 cup) orzo pasta:
• 750 ml (3 cups) low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock:
• 1 tbsp olive oil:
• 50 g (⅓ cup) crumbled feta cheese:
• Fresh parsley: chopped
• Lemon wedges:

Instructions

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Step 1:

In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the lamb cubes with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then add to the pot. Sear for 34 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2:

Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and cook for 23 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3:

Add cumin, oregano, cinnamon, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 4:

Return the lamb to the pot. Add the canned tomatoes and stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.

Step 5:

Stir in the orzo and simmer for 1012 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 6:

Fold in spinach and cook for 2 minutes until wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 7:

Serve hot, garnished with crumbled feta, chopped parsley, and lemon wedges.

Track cooking times accurately for baking, boiling, roasting, and multitasking recipes without overcooking.

Check price on Amazon

Track cooking times accurately for baking, boiling, roasting, and multitasking recipes without overcooking.

Check price on Amazon

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This dish always brings the family around the table, sparking conversations over its bold flavors and comforting warmth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp Greek salad and crusty bread to balance the smoky flavors.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

Variations

Add olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra Mediterranean depth or swap lamb for chicken to change the protein.

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Quickly slice, dice, grate, and spiralize vegetables for salads, stir fries, and faster everyday meal prep.

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Enjoy this smoky Mediterranean lamb and orzo supper as a wholesome meal that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

Common Questions

→ What cut of lamb works best for this dish?

Boneless lamb shoulder or leg cut into cubes is ideal as it becomes tender and absorbs flavors well during simmering.

→ Can I adjust the smoky flavor intensity?

Yes, enhance smokiness by adding smoked salt or a few drops of liquid smoke according to your taste.

→ Is it possible to substitute the orzo?

Gluten-free pasta or rice can replace orzo for dietary preferences without compromising texture.

→ How do the spices contribute to the dish?

Smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and cinnamon provide a warm, layered flavor profile characteristic of Mediterranean cooking.

→ What are good serving suggestions?

Serve with a crisp Greek salad and crusty bread; medium-bodied red wines like Grenache or Merlot pair well.

→ Can this dish be made vegetarian?

Yes, substitute lamb with chickpeas or another plant-based protein and adjust cooking times accordingly.