If you’re looking for a bowl of pure comfort that’s both approachable and packed with classic Greek flavor, Manestra (Simple Greek Orzo Comfort Food) is a must-try. This fuss-free, one-pot treasure transforms a handful of pantry staples—juicy tomatoes, aromatic onions and garlic, and tiny, tender orzo—into something greater than the sum of its parts. Finished with a flurry of salty cheese and bright parsley, it’s the sort of dish that wraps you in a big, cozy Greek hug with every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of my favorite things about Manestra (Simple Greek Orzo Comfort Food) is how each simple ingredient brings its own magic, creating a comforting dish with big, nostalgic flavors. Let’s break down what goes into this hug-in-a-bowl and why you don’t want to skip a single thing!
- Olive oil: The rich, fruity heartbeat of Greek cooking, it sets a flavorful foundation for sautéing.
- Yellow onion: Adds gentle sweetness and depth to the base of every bite.
- Garlic: Just two cloves add warmth and irresistible aroma to the whole dish.
- Orzo pasta: This rice-shaped pasta cooks up creamy-tender, making Manestra delightfully hearty.
- Crushed tomatoes: They bring tangy brightness and that signature Mediterranean color.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: Cooking the orzo in broth makes every spoonful savory and comforting.
- Salt: Just a dash enhances all the other flavors—don’t skip it!
- Black pepper: A pinch to balance, offering just the faintest background heat.
- Dried oregano: This little sprinkle instantly evokes classic Greek aromas and depth.
- Ground cinnamon (optional): A whisper of spice takes the dish straight to yiayia’s kitchen.
- Grated kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese: Brings creamy richness; pile it high for extra indulgence!
- Fresh parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color that makes every bowl look and taste better.
How to Make Manestra (Simple Greek Orzo Comfort Food)
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once it shimmers, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and turns translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. Throw in your minced garlic and let it cook for just 30 seconds more. This quick combo creates an incredibly fragrant base that will have everyone wandering into the kitchen to see what’s cooking!
Step 2: Toast the Orzo
Now, sprinkle the orzo pasta right into the pot. Stir to coat each little grain with the oniony, garlicky oil, toasting it for 1 to 2 minutes. This not only gives the pasta a subtle nuttiness but also helps it keep that perfect al dente bite, even as it soaks up the flavorful broth.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and the broth of your choice, and then sprinkle on the salt, pepper, oregano, and cinnamon (if you’re in the mood for that nostalgic Greek touch). Give it all a good stir. The mixture should look soupy at first—that’s exactly how it should be! This is where Manestra (Simple Greek Orzo Comfort Food) starts to reveal its signature heartiness.
Step 4: Simmer Until Creamy
Raise the heat just long enough to get things bubbling, then immediately turn it to low. Let everything simmer uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring often so nothing sticks to the bottom. You’ll watch the orzo gradually soak up liquid, turning the dish creamy and thick. When the pasta is tender and the sauce is lush, you’re ready for the home stretch!
Step 5: Finish with Cheese
Take your pot off the heat and immediately stir in the grated kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts into the hot orzo, adding richness and depth that’s just irresistible. Give the Manestra (Simple Greek Orzo Comfort Food) a quick taste and adjust salt if needed. Let it rest for a couple of minutes, which helps it thicken ever so slightly—perfect for hearty spoonfuls!
How to Serve Manestra (Simple Greek Orzo Comfort Food)
Garnishes
A final flourish of grated cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley are all you need for a beautiful, inviting bowl. Don’t be shy! The salty cheese and the herbal parsley not only add color, but they also amplify the cozy Greek flavors already in the dish.
Side Dishes
Pair your Manestra (Simple Greek Orzo Comfort Food) with a crusty chunk of rustic bread to soak up any leftover sauce, or simply serve a crisp Greek salad on the side for freshness. Both sides make the meal feel complete and even more comforting, just like in a traditional Greek home.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn a humble bowl of Manestra into a stunning centerpiece by topping with extra cheese shavings, swirling in a spoonful of Greek yogurt, or serving it in small bowls as part of a mezze spread. For heartier appetites, you can crownd it with a scoop of cooked ground beef or shredded chicken, transforming a simple supper into a showstopping main.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Manestra (Simple Greek Orzo Comfort Food) into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The orzo continues to absorb liquid, so it’ll thicken as it sits—don’t worry, that’s totally normal and easy to fix at mealtime.
Freezing
While Manestra is best enjoyed fresh or within a few days, you can freeze cooled leftovers in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Note that the texture may be a little softer after thawing, but a quick stir and a splash of broth will have it tasting fantastic again.
Reheating
To reheat, transfer Manestra to a saucepan and add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up, since it thickens significantly in the fridge. Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently until hot. Microwave reheating works too—again, just add a bit of liquid before heating to get that creamy, just-made consistency.
FAQs
Can I make Manestra (Simple Greek Orzo Comfort Food) vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and grab a vegetarian-friendly hard cheese for stirring in and garnishing. The flavors are just as hearty and soulful, making it a perfect vegetarian comfort meal.
Is cinnamon necessary in this recipe?
Cinnamon is completely optional; it adds a little bit of nostalgic Greek warmth but doesn’t overpower the dish. If you love a hint of sweet spice, go for it! If you prefer a more neutral flavor, simply leave it out.
What’s the best cheese for finishing Manestra?
Traditionally, kefalotyri cheese is used for its salty punch and crumbly texture, but if you can’t find it, Parmesan is a fantastic substitute. Both melt beautifully and add a lovely touch of Greek authenticity.
Can I add meat or extra vegetables?
Of course! Some folks love stirring in cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or even diced sautéed veggies for added protein and texture. Manestra (Simple Greek Orzo Comfort Food) is endlessly adaptable to your mood or fridge contents.
How do I prevent the orzo from sticking as it simmers?
Make sure to stir your Manestra often while it cooks—this keeps the orzo from sticking to the pot and helps everything cook evenly. If the mixture looks too thick at any point, add a splash of extra broth and keep stirring. It’s that easy!
Final Thoughts
It’s honestly impossible not to fall for the warm, nostalgic flavors of Manestra (Simple Greek Orzo Comfort Food)—one pot, pure cozy magic. Whether you serve it on a quiet weeknight or as part of a lively family gathering, you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so special. Give it a try and make it your own Greek favorite!
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Manestra (Simple Greek Orzo Comfort Food) Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Manestra is a simple and comforting Greek orzo dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. This stovetop pasta combines orzo with a savory tomato broth, seasoned with garlic, oregano, and a hint of cinnamon, then finished with cheese and fresh parsley for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a large saucepan over medium heat, sauté the onion until softened.
- Add garlic and orzo: Stir in garlic, then add orzo and toast briefly.
- Combine ingredients: Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth, season with salt, pepper, oregano, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and mixture thickens.
- Finish and serve: Stir in cheese, let sit briefly, then garnish with more cheese and parsley before serving.
Notes
- This dish thickens upon cooling, add liquid when reheating if needed.
- For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked ground beef or shredded chicken.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
