Lemon Orzo Pasta

Why Make This Recipe

Lemon Orzo Pasta is a delightful dish that brings a burst of freshness to your table. Made with orzo pasta, which resembles rice, this recipe combines the tangy kick of lemon with creamy goodness and savory Parmesan. It’s perfect for those warm days when you want something light yet satisfying. This dish is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or a simple lunch. By following this recipe, you’ll create not just a meal but a comforting experience filled with vibrant flavors.

How to Make Lemon Orzo Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the Orzo: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Al dente means the orzo should be firm to the bite but not tough. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the orzo and set it aside. Remember not to rinse it; this will help the sauce cling better later.

2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Let the oil warm up for a minute, then add minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until you can smell its fragrant aroma. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can make your dish taste bitter.

3. Combine orzo and Lemon: After the garlic is fragrant, add the cooked orzo to the skillet. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest. The zest provides an additional lemony flavor that lifts the whole dish. Mix everything well, allowing the orzo to absorb the flavors.

4. Add Cream: Pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and continue cooking on medium heat. Stir gently and cook for a couple of minutes until everything is heated through. The cream will add richness and a lovely texture to the dish.

5. Incorporate Cheese: Now it’s time for the star ingredient—cheese! Mix in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a savory depth and contributes to the creaminess of the dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, Parmesan is salty, so be cautious with the salt.

6. Serve and Garnish: Once everything is mixed and heated, serve the Lemon Orzo Pasta warm. For a touch of freshness and color, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Parsley not only looks great but also adds a burst of flavor.

How to Serve Lemon Orzo Pasta

Lemon Orzo Pasta can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a side. If serving it as a main, pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. The lightness of the orzo balances well with heavier proteins. For a vegetarian option, adding roasted vegetables or a simple side salad can enhance your meal. Serve it in shallow bowls, allowing the fresh colors of the dish to pop. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top is always a nice touch.

How to Store Lemon Orzo Pasta

If you have leftovers, storing them is simple. Place the Lemon Orzo Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in a skillet over low heat. You may need to add a splash of cream or a little water to loosen the pasta as it can thicken when stored. Microwaving is also an option; just make sure to cover it to prevent drying out.

Tips to Make Lemon Orzo Pasta

1. Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality olive oil and fresh lemons can significantly enhance the flavor of the dish. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese also makes a big difference compared to pre-grated versions.

2. Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream. Alternatively, for a richer flavor, add more cheese or a little bit of butter at the end.

3. Enhance Flavor with Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme can elevate the taste. Toss them in just before serving for that fresh burst of flavor.

4. Make It a One-Pot Meal: You can add in some cooked protein, like shrimp or chicken, during the last few minutes of cooking to turn this into a complete one-pot meal. This way, everything is done in one skillet!

Variation

Lemon Orzo Pasta is versatile, and you can customize it in many ways. Here are a couple of variations to consider:

• Vegetable Boost: Add in your favorite vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes during the cooking process. This not only adds nutrients but also brings in different colors and textures. Sauté them along with the garlic for maximum flavor.

• Lemon Basil Orzo: Add fresh basil along with the lemon for a sweet and fragrant twist. This works especially well in summer when basil is in season.

• Spicy Kick: For a little heat, add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. This will give your dish a nice spicy edge without overpowering the lemon flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes! While orzo is a great choice for this recipe, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.

2. What can I serve with Lemon Orzo Pasta?
Lemon Orzo Pasta pairs beautifully with grilled proteins such as chicken or fish. You can also serve it alongside a green salad for a refreshing meal.

3. How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider reducing the heavy cream and using a light cream or milk instead. You can also add more vegetables to increase fiber and vitamins.

4. Can I freeze Lemon Orzo Pasta?
While it’s not recommended to freeze orzo pasta dishes due to the cream, you can freeze it without the cream and add it fresh later. Reheating can be tricky, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

5. Is Lemon Orzo Pasta good for meal prep?
Yes! It’s an excellent option for meal prep. Just prepare in advance and store in airtight containers. Reheating is quick, making it a convenient lunch or dinner option.

Lemon Orzo Pasta

Print Recipe

A light and refreshing dish combining orzo pasta, lemon, cream, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for warm days.

• Author: lila-monroe
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the orzo: Boil a large pot of salted water, add the orzo, and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the garlic: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Combine orzo and lemon: Add cooked orzo to the skillet, stir in lemon juice and zest, mixing well.
4. Add cream: Pour in heavy cream and heat through for a couple of minutes.
5. Incorporate cheese: Mix in Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm garnished with parsley.

Notes

For a richer flavor, consider adding more cheese or a bit of butter. This dish can pair well with grilled chicken or fish.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Lemon Orzo, Pasta, Vegetarian, Quick Meal, Italian Recipe, Comfort Food