Prepare your taste buds for a fiery flavor journey with Spicy Oriental Orzo, a creative fusion dish that combines tender orzo pasta with the bold, savory notes of Asian-inspired ingredients. This quick and easy recipe features a zesty blend of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar, balanced with a touch of honey for the perfect harmony of sweet and salty flavors. Infused with the warmth of garlic, ginger, and red chili flakes, and tossed with crisp julienned vegetables, baby spinach, and a sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds, each bite delivers a satisfying crunch and vibrant freshness. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect as a standout main course or a dazzling side dish. Customize the heat level with optional sriracha for an extra kick, and enjoy a meal thatβs as nutritious as it is irresistible.
Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and red chili flakes to the skillet. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the carrot and red bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Add the mixture to the skillet, stirring to combine.
Toss the cooked orzo into the skillet, ensuring itβs fully coated in the sauce.
Add the baby spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring, until the spinach has wilted.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
If desired, drizzle sriracha over the orzo for an extra spicy kick.
Serve hot as a main course or a flavorful side dish. Enjoy!
Calories |
1470 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 37.9 g | 49% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.7 g | 24% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 12.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3048 mg | 133% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 248.8 g | 90% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 23.4 g | 84% | |
| Total Sugars | 41.8 g | ||
| Protein | 43.9 g | 88% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 266 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 14.4 mg | 80% | |
| Potassium | 968 mg | 21% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.