Description
A bright and flavorful Lemon Orzo recipe featuring tender orzo pasta cooked in vegetable broth, infused with garlic, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and zest, then finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. This easy and versatile dish makes a perfect side or light main meal that can be served warm or chilled.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Orzo Pasta (Rice-shaped pasta that absorbs flavors well.)
- 2 cups Vegetable Broth (Enhances flavor compared to water.)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Extra virgin for best flavor.)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (Adds creaminess and richness.)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced for flavor.)
- 1/4 cup Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed for best flavor.)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (Grated for added flavor.)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated for a nutty flavor.)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Chopped for garnish.)
- Salt (To taste.)
- Pepper (To taste.)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all ingredients, mince the garlic, zest the lemon, and squeeze the lemon juice to have everything ready for cooking.
- Cook the Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta along with a pinch of salt. Cook the orzo for 8-10 minutes until it is al dente and tender but still firm to the bite.
- Drain the Orzo: Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully drain the orzo using a colander, reserving any remaining liquid if desired.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Return the saucepan to the stove and heat the olive oil and butter together. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden but not browned.
- Add the Orzo: Return the drained orzo to the saucepan, tossing it gently in the garlic-infused oil and butter mixture to coat evenly.
- Incorporate the Lemon: Pour in the fresh lemon juice and add the lemon zest, stirring to combine the bright citrus flavors throughout the pasta.
- Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Remove the saucepan from heat. Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper, mixing everything thoroughly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the lemon orzo to a serving bowl. Garnish with additional parsley or lemon zest if desired, and serve warm or chilled according to preference.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, reserve a small amount of the cooking broth before draining, then stir it back in with the cheese and herbs.
- This dish can be served warm as a side or chilled as a refreshing pasta salad.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly grated zest for the best citrus flavor.
- Parmesan can be substituted with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper at the end, as the cheese and broth may already contain salt.
