A creamy and satisfying orzo dish, topped with roasted cherry tomatoes for a perfect sweet-tart balance with salty Parmesan. It looks like risotto, tastes like stovetop mac and cheese, and is ready in just 20 minutes—making it a perfect weeknight winner.
Place the cherry tomatoes in a baking sheet, sprinkle with 2 tbsp olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Slide into the oven for 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat a large non-stick skillet or Dutch oven over high heat. Add pine nuts and toast until golden, about 1 minute. Remove from skillet.
Lower the heat, add the remaining oil, garlic and shallot, cook until soft, about 1 minute.
Add orzo, stir until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in vegetable broth and milk. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is absorbed, about 10-15 minutes or according to package instructions. Add a splash of water if the orzo looks too dry.
Stir in Parmesan. Taste, and adjust salt and black pepper.
Top with roasted cherry tomatoes and their released juices. Sprinkle with flaky salt and red pepper flakes. Serve with toasted pine nuts, enjoy!