Lemon Orzo Pasta

Why Make This Recipe

Lemon Orzo Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavor of lemon with the comforting texture of orzo. It’s a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a lovely side dish for your next gathering. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a creamy, flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy. The bright, fresh taste of lemon makes this pasta unique and refreshing.

How to Make Lemon Orzo Pasta

Ingredients:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest, then bring to a simmer.
4. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and mix to combine, ensuring the orzo is well coated.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Lemon Orzo Pasta

Serve Lemon Orzo Pasta warm, garnished with fresh parsley. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside a crisp salad for a refreshing contrast.

How to Store Lemon Orzo Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The pasta will keep for about 3-5 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Tips to Make Lemon Orzo Pasta

• Make sure to cook the orzo just until al dente for the best texture.
• Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest based on your personal taste preference.
• For added flavor, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild kick.

Variation

If you’d like to add more nutrition, consider mixing in some sautéed spinach or peas. You can also replace heavy cream with a lighter option, like Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream, for a healthier version.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini, but cooking times may vary.

2. Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the orzo in advance. Just combine them when you are ready to serve.

Lemon Orzo Pasta

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful dish combining the zesty flavor of lemon with the comforting texture of orzo, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

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Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest, then bring to a simmer.
4. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and mix to combine, ensuring the orzo is well coated.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Cook the orzo just until al dente for the best texture. Adjust lemon juice and zest based on taste preference. For added flavor, include a pinch of red pepper flakes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian