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–+ servings
Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo

Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo: A Zesty Mediterranean Comfort Food

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Orzo is a quick, flavorful dish that's customizable and perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Substitute with other small pasta types if desired.
  • 2 cups Vegetable Broth Chicken broth is a viable substitute.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Extra virgin is preferred for best flavor.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Sauté briefly to avoid burning.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Can be replaced with half-and-half or plant-based milk.
  • 1 medium Lemon, zest & juice Fresh lemons recommended for optimal flavor.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
  • Salt and Pepper To taste.
For Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley, chopped Adds color and freshness.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain, reserving starch water, and keep warm.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream with zest and juice from one lemon. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Fold the drained orzo into the skillet, stirring to coat evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a skillet, adding broth or cream as needed.

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