Orzo Rice Pilaf with Garlic and Herbs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients with delicious flavor
• Light, fluffy, and perfectly comforting
• Garlic and herbs add fresh savory taste
• Easy to pair with many main dishes
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Quick and easy to prepare

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• long-grain rice
• orzo pasta
• garlic
• onion
• olive oil
• butter
• chicken broth or vegetable broth
• fresh parsley
• fresh dill or thyme
• salt
• black pepper
• lemon juice

Directions

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the orzo pasta and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly golden and toasted.
3. Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
5. Add the rice and stir for about 1 minute to lightly toast the grains.
6. Pour in the broth and season with salt and black pepper.
7. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
8. Simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
9. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
10. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and stir in fresh herbs and lemon juice before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add toasted pine nuts or almonds for crunch.
• Stir in peas or spinach for added color and nutrition.
• Use brown rice for a heartier texture.
• Add crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
• Mix in sautéed mushrooms for extra savory flavor.
• Use fresh mint along with parsley for a brighter herb flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist.

This pilaf can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What is orzo?

Orzo is a small pasta shaped like large grains of rice, commonly used in soups, salads, and pilaf dishes.

Why toast the orzo first?

Toasting the orzo adds a nutty flavor and helps enhance the overall texture of the pilaf.

Can I use only rice without orzo?

Yes, but the orzo adds extra texture and flavor that makes the dish unique.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice works best because it stays fluffy and separate.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Peas, carrots, spinach, or mushrooms all work very well.

How do I keep the rice from becoming mushy?

Use the correct liquid ratio and avoid overcooking the rice.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats very well and is excellent for meal prep.

What herbs work best in this pilaf?

Parsley, dill, thyme, mint, or chives all add wonderful flavor.

What can I serve with orzo rice pilaf?

It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, fish, or lamb dishes.

Conclusion

Orzo Rice Pilaf with Garlic and Herbs is a flavorful and versatile side dish that transforms simple pantry ingredients into something comforting and elegant. With toasted orzo, fluffy rice, and fragrant herbs, this recipe is easy enough for everyday meals while still impressive enough for entertaining. It is sure to become a dependable favorite for any occasion.

Orzo Rice Pilaf with Garlic and Herbs

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Orzo Rice Pilaf with Garlic and Herbs is a light and comforting side dish made with fluffy rice, toasted orzo pasta, and fragrant garlic and fresh herbs. This versatile pilaf pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes and is perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1/2 cup orzo pasta
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 1/4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill or thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the orzo pasta and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly golden and toasted.
3. Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. Add the rice and stir for 1 minute to lightly toast the grains.
6. Pour in the broth and season with salt and black pepper.
7. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
8. Simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
9. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
10. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and stir in the fresh herbs and lemon juice before serving.

Notes

• Add toasted pine nuts or almonds for extra crunch.
• Peas, spinach, mushrooms, or carrots make excellent additions.
• Use brown rice for a heartier texture, adjusting cooking time as needed.
• Crumbled feta cheese adds a delicious Mediterranean twist.
• Fresh mint can be combined with parsley for brighter flavor.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat with a splash of broth or water to keep the pilaf moist.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 260 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 540 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 41 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 5 mg