Manestra (Greek Orzo with Tomato Sauce) Recipe

Introduction

Manestra is a comforting Greek dish featuring tender orzo pasta simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce. This easy one-pot meal combines aromatic ingredients and a hint of spice for a delicious, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon red chilli flakes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 75 ml (1/3 cup) dry red wine
• 250 g (8.8 oz) orzo
• 1 x 400 g (14 oz) can chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 litre (4 cups) vegetable stock
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Step 2: Stir in the garlic and red chilli flakes and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the tomato paste and cook for one more minute. Pour in the red wine and simmer for 1-2 minutes until the alcohol has evaporated.
4. Step 4: Stir in the orzo and toast it in the pan for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.
5. Step 5: Add the chopped tomatoes, dried oregano, sugar, and vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes or until the orzo is tender. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more vegetable stock or water.
6. Step 6: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, optionally topped with crumbled feta cheese for a traditional touch.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar along with the red wine.
• Use chicken stock instead of vegetable stock if you prefer a non-vegetarian option.
• Add chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving for a fresh herbal note.
• If you like a creamier texture, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt just before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce, stirring occasionally. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but reheats well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells work well as substitutes, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it necessary to add wine?

The wine adds depth of flavor, but you can omit it and replace it with more vegetable stock or water if preferred.

Manestra (Greek Orzo with Tomato Sauce) Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.9 from 615 reviews

• Author: Mariam
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

Manestra is a comforting Greek dish featuring orzo pasta simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce enriched with red wine, garlic, and oregano, making it a perfect simple yet hearty meal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon red chilli flakes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 75 ml (1/3 cup) dry red wine
• 250 g (8.8 oz) orzo
• 1 x 400 g (14 oz) can chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 litre (4 cups) vegetable stock
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

---

Instructions

1. Sauté Onions: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
2. Add Garlic and Chilli Flakes: Stir in the finely chopped garlic and red chilli flakes. Cook for an additional minute to release their flavors.
3. Incorporate Tomato Paste and Red Wine: Add the tomato paste to the pan and cook for one minute. Pour in the dry red wine and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate. Then stir in the orzo, toasting it for 1-2 minutes while stirring frequently.
4. Simmer with Tomatoes and Stock: Add the canned chopped tomatoes, dried oregano, sugar, and vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender. Stir occasionally and add extra vegetable stock or water if the mixture becomes too thick.
5. Season and Serve: Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve this warming Manestra immediately, optionally garnished with crumbled feta cheese for added richness.

Notes

• You can adjust the amount of red chilli flakes based on your preferred spice level.
• If you don’t have red wine, you can substitute with additional vegetable stock or grape juice for sweetness.
• Adding crumbled feta on top adds a traditional Greek touch and enhances the flavor.
• Keep an eye on the orzo while simmering and add more liquid if needed to prevent sticking.
• Vegetable stock can be replaced with chicken stock if preferred, but this will alter the vegetarian status.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Greek

Keywords: Manestra, Greek orzo, tomato sauce, vegetarian Greek recipe, orzo pasta, easy Greek dinner, Mediterranean cuisine