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Lemon Orzo Recipe

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Lemon Orzo is a bright and comforting pasta side dish with fresh lemon, garlic, Parmesan, and a naturally creamy texture. Ready in about 25 minutes, it pairs beautifully with chicken, seafood, vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

  • Orzo pasta
  • Olive oil
  • Unsalted butter
  • Fresh garlic
  • Chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Lemon zest
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Fresh parsley
  • Fresh basil, optional

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant without allowing it to brown.
  3. Add the dry orzo and stir to coat it with the garlic, butter, and olive oil. Toast for 1 to 2 minutes, until some pieces become lightly golden.
  4. Pour in the broth and stir well. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a simmer.
  5. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
  7. Add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest and stir until the orzo is creamy and evenly combined.
  8. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If the orzo is too thick, stir in a small splash of warm broth or water.
  9. Remove from the heat and fold in the fresh parsley and optional basil.
  10. Serve warm with additional Parmesan, lemon zest, or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Stir the orzo frequently while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
  • For Lemon Spinach Orzo, stir fresh baby spinach into the pasta during the final few minutes and allow it to wilt before adding the Parmesan and lemon.
  • Peas, asparagus, zucchini, broccoli, or roasted tomatoes can be added for extra vegetables.
  • Add grilled or shredded chicken, sautéed shrimp, salmon, or other seafood for a more substantial meal.
  • For an even creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese before stirring in the Parmesan.
  • For Mediterranean flavor, replace some of the Parmesan with crumbled feta and add fresh dill, parsley, or basil.
  • For a dairy-free variation, omit the Parmesan, replace the butter with olive oil, and use vegetable broth.
  • Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
  • Orzo absorbs additional liquid while refrigerated, so add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
  • Freezing is possible, but the pasta may become softer after thawing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/lemon-orzo-recipe/