Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Greek Cypriot Pasta

The Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Greek Cypriot Pasta is the kind of dish that proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients to make something incredibly satisfying. With juicy grated tomatoes, soft orzo, and creamy, salty halloumi, this Mediterranean-inspired meal comes together quickly and hits all the right comfort food notes. I made this one evening when I needed something fast but flavorful, and it absolutely delivered. (inspired by Jamie Oliver)

Ingredients Needed

• 600g (1.3 lbs) large ripe tomatoes
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 15g (½ oz) flat-leaf parsley (about half a bunch)
• 200g (7 oz) dried orzo
• 40g (1.4 oz) halloumi cheese

How To Make Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Greek Cypriot Pasta

1. Grate the Tomatoes: Start by grating your ripe tomatoes using the fine side of a box grater. Do this over a plate or bowl and discard any leftover skin and seeds. This gives you a beautifully fresh, juicy tomato base for your pasta sauce.
2. Fry the Garlic: Peel and thinly slice your garlic. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 3 minutes, just until it’s golden and fragrant.
3. Add Parsley: Pick a few parsley leaves for garnish and finely chop the rest, stalks included. Add the chopped parsley to the pan with the garlic and let it cook for another 2 minutes to release its herby goodness.
4. Cook the Tomatoes and Orzo: Now stir in the grated tomatoes along with 500ml of water. Bring it all to a boil, then stir in the dried orzo. Let this simmer for around 14 minutes, stirring often to stop the orzo from sticking. If the sauce thickens too much before the pasta is done, just add a splash more water.
5. Add the Halloumi: Grate most of your halloumi and stir it into the pasta. It melts into the sauce slightly, giving it a gorgeous creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Grate the remaining halloumi over the top, garnish with your reserved parsley leaves, and finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil if you like.

Why I Love This Recipe

I made this on a weeknight when I was short on time, and it was the perfect solution. The tomatoes and halloumi bring such bold, comforting flavor, and the orzo makes it feel like a hearty risotto but way easier. It’s one of those dishes where every bite feels a bit indulgent, even though it’s so simple to make.

Recipe Tips

• Use ripe, fresh tomatoes: They’ll give your sauce the best natural sweetness and depth.
• Grate halloumi coarsely: It’s easier and melts better this way.
• Watch the orzo: Stir often and taste as you go to avoid overcooking.
• Add water as needed: Keep the sauce at a silky, spoonable consistency.
• Try it with lemon zest: For a fresh zing, a little grated lemon zest on top works beautifully.

How To Store This Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Greek Cypriot Pasta

• At Room Temperature: Only leave out for up to 2 hours. After that, refrigerate promptly.
• In the Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get better!
• In the Freezer: This one isn’t ideal for freezing, as the orzo can go mushy, but it’s okay in a pinch. Reheat gently and stir often.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
  Fresh is best here, but in a pinch, use high-quality canned whole tomatoes and mash them well.
• Is there a substitute for halloumi?
  You could try feta or paneer, but halloumi’s texture and flavor really make this dish shine.
• Can I make this gluten-free?
  Absolutely—just use gluten-free orzo or small pasta and follow the same instructions.
• What herbs go well with this?
  Aside from parsley, mint or a little oregano would work nicely.
• Can I add protein?
  Sure! Grilled chicken or chickpeas would be a lovely addition if you want to bulk it up.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 559 kcal
• Fat: 19.7g
• Saturated Fat: 5.6g
• Protein: 18.9g
• Carbohydrates: 80.3g
• Sugars: 10.1g
• Salt: 0.6g
• Fibre: 5.7g

Try More Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Recipes:

• Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Asparagus Pasta
• Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Prawn Pasta
• Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Sausage Pasta
• Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Mushroom Pasta