Description
This bright and creamy Lemon Orzo recipe features tender orzo pasta cooked in vegetable broth with garlic and sweet peas, finished with fresh lemon juice, zest, Parmesan cheese, and fragrant herbs. A quick and comforting side dish or light main that balances citrusy brightness and cheesy richness.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or extra-virgin olive oil
- 1½ cups orzo pasta
- 3 to 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Add-ins and Flavorings
- ½ cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, plus more to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, basil, and/or dill
Instructions
- Toast the Orzo: Melt the butter in a large saucepan or medium Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the orzo and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta and enhance its flavor.
- Add Broth and Cook: Pour in 3 cups of vegetable broth along with the grated garlic, sea salt, and several grinds of black pepper. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to medium-low. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, or until most of the broth is absorbed by the orzo.
- Incorporate Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing them to heat through completely while keeping their vibrant color and sweetness.
- Add Finishing Touches Off Heat: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, grated Parmesan cheese, and half of the chopped fresh herbs until the cheese melts and forms a creamy consistency. Adjust seasoning with more broth if needed to keep the orzo moist and creamy.
- Serve: Spoon the orzo into bowls or onto plates. Garnish with the remaining fresh herbs and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm as a delightful side or light vegetarian main course.
Notes
- Nutrition facts are calculated for one-quarter of the recipe.
- The sodium content will vary depending on the brand of vegetable broth used.
- You can substitute fresh peas if available, adding them in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- For a richer flavor, use unsalted butter instead of olive oil.
- Adjust lemon juice quantity to taste for more or less tanginess.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
