Name: Manestra (Simple Greek Orzo Comfort Food)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan or Kefalotyri cheese for serving (optional)

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Looking for a cozy, soul-warming dish that’s quick to make yet feels like a hug in a bowl? Manestra is just what you need! This Greek comfort food is made with orzo pasta simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato-based sauce, creating a dish that’s hearty and satisfying without being heavy. It’s simple, comforting, and will fill your kitchen with the most inviting aromas. Trust me, this dish is a true winner for any occasion, whether you’re craving a light lunch or a cozy dinner.

Why You’ll Love Manestra

Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for this dish:

Versatile: You can serve it as a main dish or a side, and it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or a fresh salad.

Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples, this dish won’t break the bank. It’s perfect for a cozy night in when you’re craving something comforting.

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy days when you want a homemade meal without the hassle.

Customizable: You can add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or even top it with feta cheese for an added twist.

Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s simple, flavorful, and always satisfies those comfort food cravings.

Ingredients

Now, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to bring this simple but delicious dish to life:

Orzo Pasta: The star of this dish! Orzo, those little rice-shaped pasta pieces, soak up all the flavorful tomato sauce beautifully.

Tomatoes: You’ll use fresh or canned tomatoes to create the rich, flavorful base for the sauce. The tomatoes give the dish that signature tangy, sweet flavor.

Olive Oil: A good drizzle of olive oil helps to sauté the onions and garlic, infusing the dish with a rich, Mediterranean flavor.

Onion & Garlic: Essential aromatics that form the foundation of the dish. They bring a savory depth that enhances the tomato sauce.

Vegetable Broth: Adds extra flavor to the sauce and helps create the perfect texture for the orzo.

Dried Oregano & Bay Leaves: These herbs bring the essence of Greek cooking, infusing the dish with a lovely earthy and aromatic touch.

Salt & Pepper: To season the dish and bring all the flavors together.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Manestra (Simple Greek Orzo Comfort Food)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this hearty, comforting dish:

Preheat Your Equipment: Heat your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This will help create a savory base for your dish.

Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor.

Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Stir in the canned tomatoes (or fresh, if you prefer), vegetable broth, oregano, and bay leaves. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the pot and stir it in. Let the orzo cook in the simmering sauce, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking. It should cook in about 10-12 minutes, until tender and the sauce has thickened to coat the pasta.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you want a richer flavor, feel free to drizzle in a little more olive oil.

Serve and Enjoy: Once the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened to a nice consistency, remove from heat and serve immediately. This dish is perfect on its own or served alongside some grilled meats or a fresh salad.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories (depending on the ingredients used)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Manestra

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

Serve with a fresh Greek salad, topped with olives, cucumber, and feta cheese for the perfect Mediterranean combo.
Pair with some crispy grilled chicken or lamb to add protein to the meal.
Enjoy with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

You can add some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Want a little heat? Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
If you have leftovers, it keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days, and the flavors continue to develop!

FAQ’s

Can I make Manestra with other types of pasta?
Yes! While orzo is traditional, you can use any small pasta shape like ditalini or small shells.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! It’s already vegetarian, but you can easily make it vegan by omitting any cheese toppings.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just chop them finely and simmer them down until they release their juices.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Manestra?
Yes, it freezes well! Just let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove with a little extra broth.
How can I make Manestra spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a diced chili to the sauce for some extra heat.
Can I add vegetables to Manestra?
Yes, adding vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers will make this dish even heartier and more colorful.
What can I serve with Manestra?
Serve it with grilled meats, a Greek salad, or some crusty bread for dipping.
Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, chicken broth will work just fine if that’s what you have on hand.
How do I make Manestra richer?
To make it creamier, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving.

Conclusion

Manestra is the epitome of simple comfort food with big flavors. It’s quick, easy, and packed with Mediterranean goodness that will warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner or serving it as part of a Mediterranean feast, this dish will surely impress. Enjoy every comforting bite!