Spicy Calabrian Chili Orzo with Roasted Vegetables: A Flavor-Packed Delight

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more? Look no further than this Spicy Calabrian Chili Orzo with Roasted Vegetables recipe! This dish is a symphony of flavors and textures, combining the comforting warmth of orzo pasta with the vibrant freshness of roasted vegetables and the fiery kick of Calabrian chilies. It’s a perfect weeknight meal, a crowd-pleasing side dish, or even a delicious make-ahead lunch.

This recipe celebrates the versatility of orzo pasta, also known as risoni. Its rice-like shape makes it a fantastic base for absorbing all the wonderful flavors of the roasted vegetables and the Calabrian chili-infused sauce. Roasting the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and creates a beautiful caramelized char that adds depth to the dish.

The star of the show, however, is the Calabrian chili. These small but mighty peppers from the Calabria region of Italy pack a serious punch of heat and a unique fruity flavor. They add a delightful complexity to the dish that will awaken your senses. If you’re sensitive to spice, don’t worry! You can easily adjust the amount of Calabrian chili to your liking.

So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! This Spicy Calabrian Chili Orzo with Roasted Vegetables recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Flavorful:** The combination of roasted vegetables, Calabrian chilies, garlic, and herbs creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
* **Versatile:** This dish can be served as a main course, a side dish, or even a cold pasta salad.
* **Easy to Make:** With a few simple steps, you can have this flavorful dish on the table in under an hour.
* **Customizable:** You can easily swap out the vegetables for your favorites or adjust the spice level to your preference.
* **Healthy:** Packed with vegetables and whole grains, this dish is a nutritious and delicious option.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Orzo Pasta:** The foundation of our dish. You’ll need about 1 pound.
* **Calabrian Chilies:** The source of heat and unique flavor. You can find them in oil-packed jars, as a paste, or as dried flakes. If using dried flakes, rehydrate them in hot water for a few minutes before using.
* **Vegetables:** A colorful mix of your choice. We recommend bell peppers (red, yellow, orange), zucchini, eggplant, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Aim for about 4-5 cups total.
* **Garlic:** Essential for adding aroma and depth of flavor.
* **Olive Oil:** For roasting the vegetables and sautéing the garlic.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Parsley, basil, and oregano add freshness and brightness to the dish. You can use a combination of your favorites.
* **Lemon Juice:** A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
* **Parmesan Cheese (Optional):** For a salty and savory finish.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.

## Equipment Needed

* **Large Baking Sheet:** For roasting the vegetables.
* **Large Pot:** For cooking the orzo pasta.
* **Large Skillet or Saute Pan:** For sautéing the garlic and Calabrian chilies and combining all the ingredients.
* **Mixing Bowls:** For tossing the vegetables with olive oil and seasoning.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a detailed guide to making this delicious Spicy Calabrian Chili Orzo with Roasted Vegetables:

**Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables**

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and chop all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Aim for roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the chopped vegetables with 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure the vegetables are evenly coated.
4. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the vegetables instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets.

**Step 2: Roast the Vegetables**

1. Place the baking sheet(s) in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
2. While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the orzo pasta.

**Step 3: Cook the Orzo Pasta**

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Al dente means the pasta is cooked through but still has a slight bite to it.
3. Once the orzo is cooked, drain it well and set aside.

**Step 4: Prepare the Calabrian Chili Sauce**

1. While the orzo is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
2. Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the Calabrian chilies. The amount you use will depend on your spice preference. Start with 1-2 teaspoons of Calabrian chili paste, 1-2 chopped chilies from the oil-packed jar, or 1/2-1 teaspoon of dried chili flakes. Remember, you can always add more later, but you can’t take it away!
4. Cook the chilies for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to release their flavor.

**Step 5: Combine Everything**

1. Add the cooked orzo pasta to the skillet with the Calabrian chili sauce. Toss well to coat the orzo evenly.
2. Add the roasted vegetables to the skillet. Gently fold everything together to combine.
3. Stir in the chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil, and oregano).
4. Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!**

1. Serve the Spicy Calabrian Chili Orzo with Roasted Vegetables warm. You can top it with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
2. Enjoy this flavor-packed and satisfying dish!

## Tips and Variations

* **Adjust the Spice Level:** If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a small amount of Calabrian chili and add more to taste. You can also remove the seeds from the chilies to reduce the heat.
* **Add Protein:** This dish is delicious with grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage. You can add the protein to the skillet along with the roasted vegetables.
* **Use Different Vegetables:** Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, mushrooms, or carrots. Just adjust the roasting time accordingly.
* **Make it Vegan:** Omit the Parmesan cheese to make this dish vegan.
* **Add Beans:** White beans or chickpeas would be a great addition to this dish, adding protein and fiber.
* **Make it Ahead:** This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors will actually meld together even more as it sits.
* **Serve it Cold:** This orzo salad is also delicious served cold as a pasta salad. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or lunchboxes.
* **Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of intense flavor to this dish. Add them to the skillet along with the garlic and Calabrian chilies.
* **Toast the Orzo:** Before cooking the orzo, toast it in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, until lightly golden brown. This will enhance its nutty flavor.
* **Use Chicken Broth:** Instead of water, cook the orzo in chicken broth for even more flavor.

## Serving Suggestions

This Spicy Calabrian Chili Orzo with Roasted Vegetables is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways:

* **Main Course:** Serve it as a light and flavorful main course, especially during warmer months.
* **Side Dish:** Pair it with grilled meat, fish, or poultry for a complete and satisfying meal.
* **Potluck Dish:** Bring it to your next potluck or barbecue. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
* **Lunchbox Meal:** Pack it in your lunchbox for a healthy and delicious midday meal.
* **Appetizer:** Serve it as a small appetizer at your next dinner party.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover Spicy Calabrian Chili Orzo with Roasted Vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the orzo in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per Serving, based on estimated ingredients and serving size)

* Calories: 350-450
* Protein: 10-15g
* Fat: 15-25g
* Carbohydrates: 50-60g
* Fiber: 5-7g

*Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving sizes used.*

## Conclusion

This Spicy Calabrian Chili Orzo with Roasted Vegetables recipe is a culinary masterpiece that combines the best of Italian flavors with fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s easy to make, customizable, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, get ready to spice up your life and enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish!