If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal that packs a punch in both flavor and nutrition, then look no further than this One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan). This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends with minimal effort. With its creamy texture, vibrant colors, and wholesome ingredients, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, the fact that it’s made in just one pot means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your delicious creation!

The Upside of One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan)

One-pot meals are not just convenient; they are a lifesaver for anyone juggling a busy lifestyle. With this One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan), you combine the rich flavors of spinach, artichokes, and chickpeas, all while savoring the delightful taste of orzo pasta. The addition of nutritional yeast elevates the dish with a cheesy flavor, while the chickpeas provide a hearty protein boost, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. What’s more, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences or what you have on hand, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Ingredient List

1 cup water
5 oz (142 grams) baby spinach
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large shallot, fine dice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon lemon zest
½ teaspoon ground chilies or chili flakes, optional
1 tablespoon light miso
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
8 oz (227 grams) dry orzo pasta
1 cup cooked chickpeas (from a 15 oz/443 ml can)
2 cups chopped artichoke hearts from a can/jar
Sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste
3 cups vegetable stock
½ cup unsweetened rich non-dairy milk, such as cashew
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vegan Worcestershire sauce

Gear Up: What to Grab

Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for cooking everything in one place.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients together.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping veggies and herbs.

Make One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan): A Simple Method

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced shallot and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Flavor Boosters

Sprinkle in the nutritional yeast, onion powder, garlic powder, lemon zest, and optional chili flakes. Stir well to combine. This mixture will create a wonderful base for your orzo.

Step 3: Incorporate the Miso and Mustard

Add the light miso and Dijon mustard to the pot, stirring until everything is well combined and creamy. Your kitchen should be filling up with an enticing aroma at this point!

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Pour in the dry orzo pasta, cooked chickpeas, and artichoke hearts. Season with sea salt and black pepper. Pour in the vegetable stock and stir to combine everything thoroughly.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the baby spinach, non-dairy milk, lemon juice, and vegan Worcestershire sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve your One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan) warm, garnished with extra lemon zest or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an added kick. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!

Substitutions by Category

Pasta: Substitute orzo with quinoa or any small pasta shape, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary.
Greens: Feel free to swap the spinach with kale or Swiss chard.
Beans: Black beans or lentils can be used in place of chickpeas for variety.
Non-Dairy Milk: Almond or soy milk works well if cashew milk isn’t available.

Pro Perspective

This One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan) is not only a fantastic weeknight meal but also a great dish for meal prepping. It holds up well in the fridge for a few days, making it a convenient option for lunch or dinner.
Don’t be afraid to get creative! Add in your favorite seasonal vegetables or adjust the spices to make it your own.
The creamy texture comes from the combination of non-dairy milk and nutritional yeast, giving you a rich, comforting dish without any dairy.

Prep Ahead & Store

The beauty of this One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan) is that it can be made ahead of time. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of vegetable stock or water to loosen the consistency and warm it on the stove over low heat.

To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it out into freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as mentioned above.

Common Qs About One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan)

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free orzo or a gluten-free pasta of your choice, and adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I enhance the flavor even more?

Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end of cooking for a burst of freshness, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.

Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! This One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan) stores well and can be reheated easily for a quick meal throughout the week.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or even as a side to a larger vegan spread at your next gathering!

Quick Weeknight Wins

Vegan Pasta Salad – A refreshing option for warm nights.
Creamy Vegan Pasta – Rich and indulgent, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
Easy Vegan Chili – Hearty and warming, perfect for chilly evenings.
Easy Vegan Buddha Bowl – A nourishing and colorful option.

Time to Try It

Now that you have this simple and delicious recipe for One-Pot Spinach Artichoke Orzo with Chickpeas (Vegan), it’s time to get cooking! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, you’ll be enjoying a comforting and satisfying meal in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to impress and delight. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor every bite of this creamy, flavorful dish!