Description
Experience the tangy freshness of lemon and the rich creaminess of orzo, all in one pot! This delightful dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- Key Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Instructions
- 1. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- 2. Toast the Orzo
- Add orzo pasta to the pot with garlic. Stir frequently for about 2 minutes until lightly toasted.
- 3. Pour in Broth
- Add vegetable broth and fresh lemon juice to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
- 4. Stir in Cream
- Once orzo is almost cooked (about 10 minutes), add heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer gently until creamy.
- 5. Add Cheese and Zest
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon zest until everything is combined and cheesy.
- 6. Finish with Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top before serving. Drizzle with extra lemon juice if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 75mg