DisclaimerTerms Of UseGDPR PolicyCookie Policy

eataroundit

Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo Delightful and Easy Meal

by
- 1 cup orzo pasta - 4 cups vegetable broth - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 small onion, diced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 lemon, zested and freshly juiced - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) Gathering the right ingredients makes cooking fun and easy. Start with orzo pasta, a small rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly. You will also need vegetable broth for flavor, and extra virgin olive oil to sauté the veggies. Next, grab garlic and onion for a base of tasty flavor. Heavy cream adds rich creaminess to the dish, while lemon zest and juice bring bright freshness. Don’t forget the Parmesan cheese; it adds a nice, savory touch. Finally, keep salt and black pepper handy for seasoning, and fresh parsley for a pop of color and taste on top. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a delightful meal that you will enjoy serving! {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, pour 4 cups of vegetable broth into a medium pot. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once the broth is bubbling, add 1 cup of orzo pasta. Keep stirring it a bit so it doesn't stick. Cook the orzo for 8 to 10 minutes. It should be al dente, which means it’s firm yet cooked. While the orzo cooks, grab a large skillet. Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add in your diced onion and sauté it for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want the onion to turn soft and clear. Next, add 3 cloves of finely minced garlic. Sauté this for 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic smells great, but don’t let it brown. That can make it taste bitter. Now, lower the heat and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer gently. Once your orzo is cooked, drain it carefully. Add the orzo right into the skillet with the sauce. Mix them well so the pasta is coated. Next, stir in the zest and juice from 1 lemon. Add in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese too. Mix everything until the cheese melts and creates a rich, creamy texture. Taste the dish. If it needs it, sprinkle in some salt and freshly cracked black pepper. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved broth to reach your desired creaminess. Let it sit for one minute before serving. To get the right creaminess in your orzo, start with the heavy cream. It adds richness. If the dish feels too thick, use the reserved broth. Just add a splash and stir until smooth. This keeps your orzo from feeling dry. For the best flavor balance, use fresh lemon juice. It brightens the dish. The zest adds aroma too. Don't forget to taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper to find your favorite mix. For a stunning look, serve the creamy orzo in shallow bowls. This way, it looks fancy and inviting. Top with finely chopped parsley for color. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese adds a nice touch too. You can also add lemon slices on the side. This not only looks good but shows off the lemon flavor in the dish. These simple tips make your meal feel special and ready to impress! Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo while it cooks; you want it al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly after being added to the sauce. Garlic Timing: Add the minced garlic after the onions are translucent to ensure it doesn’t burn. Burnt garlic can add an unpleasant bitterness to your dish. Adjusting Consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the reserved vegetable broth. This will help achieve a creamy, smooth texture without compromising flavor. Garnish for Flavor: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice on top just before serving for an extra zing! {{image_4}} You can easily amp up the protein in your creamy lemon garlic orzo. For a hearty dish, consider adding chicken or shrimp. - Chicken: Cook bite-sized chicken pieces in the skillet before adding the cream. Season well for extra flavor. - Shrimp: Add shrimp after the garlic and onion. Cook until they turn pink and opaque. If you're looking for vegetarian options, consider chickpeas or tofu. - Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas add protein and a nice texture. Rinse and stir them in when you mix the orzo. - Tofu: Firm tofu works well. Cube and sauté it until golden before adding it to the dish. To make your orzo even more exciting, think about adding herbs and spices. - Herbs: Fresh basil, thyme, or dill can elevate the dish. Stir them in at the end for a burst of flavor. - Spices: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick if you like heat. You can also toss in extra veggies for color and nutrition. - Spinach: Add fresh spinach right before serving. It wilts quickly and adds a lovely green touch. - Peas or Asparagus: These can be added during the last few minutes of cooking. They bring a fresh, bright taste to the dish. Feel free to mix and match these ideas to suit your taste! To keep your creamy orzo fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge. It stays good for up to three days. If you have more orzo than you can eat, freezing is a great option. Divide the orzo into smaller portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When it’s time to eat your leftovers, you want to keep the creaminess. The best way to reheat orzo is on the stove. Add the orzo to a pan over low heat. Stir in a splash of broth or cream to help revive it. This keeps it smooth and tasty. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often. You can also use the microwave. Place the orzo in a bowl. Add a bit of liquid and cover it. Heat for 1-2 minutes, then stir and check if it’s warm enough. Adjust the time as needed. Enjoy your creamy lemon garlic orzo! Yes, you can use other types of pasta. Some great options include: - Rice-shaped pasta: It cooks similarly to orzo. - Small shells: They hold sauce well. - Farfalle: Also known as bowtie pasta. For cooking times: - Rice-shaped pasta: About 8-10 minutes. - Small shells: Cook for 10-12 minutes. - Farfalle: Takes about 11-13 minutes. Make sure to adjust the broth amount based on the pasta you choose. To make this dish vegan, swap out the cream and cheese. Here are some easy substitutes: - Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream. - Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese brand. These swaps keep the dish creamy while adding flavor. This dish pairs well with many sides and proteins. Here are some ideas: - Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. - A fresh green salad to balance the meal. - Roasted vegetables for extra color and flavor. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste preferences! This blog post shared a simple recipe for Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo. We covered the ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for creaminess and presentation. I also offered variations to suit your taste and ideas for storing leftovers. In my experience, this dish can bring joy to any meal. Play with flavors and ingredients to make it your own. Enjoy cooking and sharing this creamy delight with family and friends!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? My Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo is your answer! This dish mixes creamy goodness with zesty lemon, making it a delight for your taste buds. It’s simple to make, uses easy-to-find ingredients, and takes just minutes. Join me as we turn orzo into a comforting meal that you’ll crave again and again. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that fits any weeknight!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This creamy lemon garlic orzo can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
  2. Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic, lemon, and Parmesan creates a deliciously rich and tangy flavor that elevates simple orzo to gourmet status.
  3. Versatile Dish: This recipe can easily be customized by adding vegetables or protein, such as spinach, shrimp, or chicken, making it a versatile option for any meal.
  4. Garnished to Perfection: The fresh parsley and extra Parmesan not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a burst of freshness and flavor to each bite.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 cup orzo pasta

– 4 cups vegetable broth

– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 1 small onion, diced

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 lemon, zested and freshly juiced

– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Gathering the right ingredients makes cooking fun and easy. Start with orzo pasta, a small rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly. You will also need vegetable broth for flavor, and extra virgin olive oil to sauté the veggies.

Next, grab garlic and onion for a base of tasty flavor. Heavy cream adds rich creaminess to the dish, while lemon zest and juice bring bright freshness. Don’t forget the Parmesan cheese; it adds a nice, savory touch.

Finally, keep salt and black pepper handy for seasoning, and fresh parsley for a pop of color and taste on top. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a delightful meal that you will enjoy serving!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Orzo

To start, pour 4 cups of vegetable broth into a medium pot. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once the broth is bubbling, add 1 cup of orzo pasta. Keep stirring it a bit so it doesn’t stick. Cook the orzo for 8 to 10 minutes. It should be al dente, which means it’s firm yet cooked.

Preparing the Sauce

While the orzo cooks, grab a large skillet. Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add in your diced onion and sauté it for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want the onion to turn soft and clear. Next, add 3 cloves of finely minced garlic. Sauté this for 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic smells great, but don’t let it brown. That can make it taste bitter. Now, lower the heat and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer gently.

Combining Ingredients

Once your orzo is cooked, drain it carefully. Add the orzo right into the skillet with the sauce. Mix them well so the pasta is coated. Next, stir in the zest and juice from 1 lemon. Add in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese too. Mix everything until the cheese melts and creates a rich, creamy texture. Taste the dish. If it needs it, sprinkle in some salt and freshly cracked black pepper. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved broth to reach your desired creaminess. Let it sit for one minute before serving.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Creaminess

To get the right creaminess in your orzo, start with the heavy cream. It adds richness. If the dish feels too thick, use the reserved broth. Just add a splash and stir until smooth. This keeps your orzo from feeling dry.

For the best flavor balance, use fresh lemon juice. It brightens the dish. The zest adds aroma too. Don’t forget to taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper to find your favorite mix.

Presentation Tips

For a stunning look, serve the creamy orzo in shallow bowls. This way, it looks fancy and inviting. Top with finely chopped parsley for color. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese adds a nice touch too.

You can also add lemon slices on the side. This not only looks good but shows off the lemon flavor in the dish. These simple tips make your meal feel special and ready to impress!

Pro Tips

  1. Perfectly Cooked Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo while it cooks; you want it al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly after being added to the sauce.
  2. Garlic Timing: Add the minced garlic after the onions are translucent to ensure it doesn’t burn. Burnt garlic can add an unpleasant bitterness to your dish.
  3. Adjusting Consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the reserved vegetable broth. This will help achieve a creamy, smooth texture without compromising flavor.
  4. Garnish for Flavor: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice on top just before serving for an extra zing!

Variations

Adding Protein

You can easily amp up the protein in your creamy lemon garlic orzo. For a hearty dish, consider adding chicken or shrimp.

– Chicken: Cook bite-sized chicken pieces in the skillet before adding the cream. Season well for extra flavor.

– Shrimp: Add shrimp after the garlic and onion. Cook until they turn pink and opaque.

If you’re looking for vegetarian options, consider chickpeas or tofu.

– Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas add protein and a nice texture. Rinse and stir them in when you mix the orzo.

– Tofu: Firm tofu works well. Cube and sauté it until golden before adding it to the dish.

Flavor Enhancements

To make your orzo even more exciting, think about adding herbs and spices.

– Herbs: Fresh basil, thyme, or dill can elevate the dish. Stir them in at the end for a burst of flavor.

– Spices: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick if you like heat.

You can also toss in extra veggies for color and nutrition.

– Spinach: Add fresh spinach right before serving. It wilts quickly and adds a lovely green touch.

– Peas or Asparagus: These can be added during the last few minutes of cooking. They bring a fresh, bright taste to the dish.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to suit your taste!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your creamy orzo fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge. It stays good for up to three days. If you have more orzo than you can eat, freezing is a great option. Divide the orzo into smaller portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months.

Reheating Tips

When it’s time to eat your leftovers, you want to keep the creaminess. The best way to reheat orzo is on the stove. Add the orzo to a pan over low heat. Stir in a splash of broth or cream to help revive it. This keeps it smooth and tasty. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often. You can also use the microwave. Place the orzo in a bowl. Add a bit of liquid and cover it. Heat for 1-2 minutes, then stir and check if it’s warm enough. Adjust the time as needed. Enjoy your creamy lemon garlic orzo!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta. Some great options include:

– Rice-shaped pasta: It cooks similarly to orzo.

– Small shells: They hold sauce well.

– Farfalle: Also known as bowtie pasta.

For cooking times:

– Rice-shaped pasta: About 8-10 minutes.

– Small shells: Cook for 10-12 minutes.

– Farfalle: Takes about 11-13 minutes.

Make sure to adjust the broth amount based on the pasta you choose.

How to make this dish vegan?

To make this dish vegan, swap out the cream and cheese. Here are some easy substitutes:

– Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream.

– Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese brand.

These swaps keep the dish creamy while adding flavor.

What can I serve with Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo?

This dish pairs well with many sides and proteins. Here are some ideas:

– Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

– A fresh green salad to balance the meal.

– Roasted vegetables for extra color and flavor.

Feel free to mix and match based on your taste preferences!

This blog post shared a simple recipe for Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo. We covered the ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for creaminess and presentation. I also offered variations to suit your taste and ideas for storing leftovers.

In my experience, this dish can bring joy to any meal. Play with flavors and ingredients to make it your own. Enjoy cooking and sharing this creamy delight with family and friend

- 1 cup orzo pasta - 4 cups vegetable broth - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 small onion, diced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 lemon, zested and freshly juiced - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) Gathering the right ingredients makes cooking fun and easy. Start with orzo pasta, a small rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly. You will also need vegetable broth for flavor, and extra virgin olive oil to sauté the veggies. Next, grab garlic and onion for a base of tasty flavor. Heavy cream adds rich creaminess to the dish, while lemon zest and juice bring bright freshness. Don’t forget the Parmesan cheese; it adds a nice, savory touch. Finally, keep salt and black pepper handy for seasoning, and fresh parsley for a pop of color and taste on top. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a delightful meal that you will enjoy serving! {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, pour 4 cups of vegetable broth into a medium pot. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once the broth is bubbling, add 1 cup of orzo pasta. Keep stirring it a bit so it doesn't stick. Cook the orzo for 8 to 10 minutes. It should be al dente, which means it’s firm yet cooked. While the orzo cooks, grab a large skillet. Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add in your diced onion and sauté it for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want the onion to turn soft and clear. Next, add 3 cloves of finely minced garlic. Sauté this for 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic smells great, but don’t let it brown. That can make it taste bitter. Now, lower the heat and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer gently. Once your orzo is cooked, drain it carefully. Add the orzo right into the skillet with the sauce. Mix them well so the pasta is coated. Next, stir in the zest and juice from 1 lemon. Add in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese too. Mix everything until the cheese melts and creates a rich, creamy texture. Taste the dish. If it needs it, sprinkle in some salt and freshly cracked black pepper. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved broth to reach your desired creaminess. Let it sit for one minute before serving. To get the right creaminess in your orzo, start with the heavy cream. It adds richness. If the dish feels too thick, use the reserved broth. Just add a splash and stir until smooth. This keeps your orzo from feeling dry. For the best flavor balance, use fresh lemon juice. It brightens the dish. The zest adds aroma too. Don't forget to taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper to find your favorite mix. For a stunning look, serve the creamy orzo in shallow bowls. This way, it looks fancy and inviting. Top with finely chopped parsley for color. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese adds a nice touch too. You can also add lemon slices on the side. This not only looks good but shows off the lemon flavor in the dish. These simple tips make your meal feel special and ready to impress! Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo while it cooks; you want it al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly after being added to the sauce. Garlic Timing: Add the minced garlic after the onions are translucent to ensure it doesn’t burn. Burnt garlic can add an unpleasant bitterness to your dish. Adjusting Consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the reserved vegetable broth. This will help achieve a creamy, smooth texture without compromising flavor. Garnish for Flavor: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice on top just before serving for an extra zing! {{image_4}} You can easily amp up the protein in your creamy lemon garlic orzo. For a hearty dish, consider adding chicken or shrimp. - Chicken: Cook bite-sized chicken pieces in the skillet before adding the cream. Season well for extra flavor. - Shrimp: Add shrimp after the garlic and onion. Cook until they turn pink and opaque. If you're looking for vegetarian options, consider chickpeas or tofu. - Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas add protein and a nice texture. Rinse and stir them in when you mix the orzo. - Tofu: Firm tofu works well. Cube and sauté it until golden before adding it to the dish. To make your orzo even more exciting, think about adding herbs and spices. - Herbs: Fresh basil, thyme, or dill can elevate the dish. Stir them in at the end for a burst of flavor. - Spices: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick if you like heat. You can also toss in extra veggies for color and nutrition. - Spinach: Add fresh spinach right before serving. It wilts quickly and adds a lovely green touch. - Peas or Asparagus: These can be added during the last few minutes of cooking. They bring a fresh, bright taste to the dish. Feel free to mix and match these ideas to suit your taste! To keep your creamy orzo fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge. It stays good for up to three days. If you have more orzo than you can eat, freezing is a great option. Divide the orzo into smaller portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When it’s time to eat your leftovers, you want to keep the creaminess. The best way to reheat orzo is on the stove. Add the orzo to a pan over low heat. Stir in a splash of broth or cream to help revive it. This keeps it smooth and tasty. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often. You can also use the microwave. Place the orzo in a bowl. Add a bit of liquid and cover it. Heat for 1-2 minutes, then stir and check if it’s warm enough. Adjust the time as needed. Enjoy your creamy lemon garlic orzo! Yes, you can use other types of pasta. Some great options include: - Rice-shaped pasta: It cooks similarly to orzo. - Small shells: They hold sauce well. - Farfalle: Also known as bowtie pasta. For cooking times: - Rice-shaped pasta: About 8-10 minutes. - Small shells: Cook for 10-12 minutes. - Farfalle: Takes about 11-13 minutes. Make sure to adjust the broth amount based on the pasta you choose. To make this dish vegan, swap out the cream and cheese. Here are some easy substitutes: - Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream. - Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese brand. These swaps keep the dish creamy while adding flavor. This dish pairs well with many sides and proteins. Here are some ideas: - Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. - A fresh green salad to balance the meal. - Roasted vegetables for extra color and flavor. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste preferences! This blog post shared a simple recipe for Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo. We covered the ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for creaminess and presentation. I also offered variations to suit your taste and ideas for storing leftovers. In my experience, this dish can bring joy to any meal. Play with flavors and ingredients to make it your own. Enjoy cooking and sharing this creamy delight with family and friends!

Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo Delight

A rich and creamy orzo pasta dish with lemon and garlic flavors.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 lemon zested and freshly juiced
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste freshly cracked black pepper
  • for garnish Fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions
 

  • Begin by pouring the vegetable broth into a medium saucepan and bringing it to a vigorous boil over high heat. Carefully add the orzo pasta once the broth is boiling, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente.
  • While the orzo is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent and soft.
  • Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the onions. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant but takes care not to let it brown.
  • Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine the flavors without bringing it to a boil.
  • Once the orzo has finished cooking, drain it and add it directly into the skillet. Stir well to merge the pasta with the creamy garlic sauce.
  • Incorporate the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice into the mixture, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir thoroughly until the cheese is melted.
  • Taste the dish and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of the reserved broth.
  • Remove from the heat and allow the orzo to sit for a minute to let the flavors meld before serving.

Notes

For an elegant presentation, serve in a shallow bowl and garnish with parsley and Parmesan.
Keyword creamy, garlic, lemon, orzo, pasta

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating