Lemon Garlic Orzo with Parmesan is a silky, flavorful dish that works as a zesty side or a light main course. This quick recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious yet easy to prepare. The combination of lemon and garlic gives the orzo a refreshing lift, while the creamy Parmesan adds a rich texture. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or making it the star of your meal, this dish is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Orzo with
This Lemon Garlic Orzo with is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Here are some compelling reasons to love it:
- Ready in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Rich in flavor thanks to the bright taste of lemon and savory garlic.
- Perfect for meal prep; it stores well and reheats beautifully.
- Can be customized with various proteins, such as chicken or shrimp.
- Vegetarian-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a healthy meal without meat.
- Works as a fantastic side dish or a light main course.
- Incorporates healthy ingredients like spinach or peas for added nutrition.
- Suitable for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings.
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Orzo with
Gather these items:
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 1 cup spinach or peas
- Optional protein: shredded rotisserie chicken or sautéed shrimp
How to Make Lemon Garlic Orzo with Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add orzo and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed (about 8–10 minutes).
- Step 2: Stir in butter, minced garlic, and lemon zest. Cook for 1–2 more minutes until fragrant.
- Step 3: Mix in Parmesan cheese and stir until creamy. Add spinach or peas if using, and cook until just wilted or heated through.
- Step 4: For extra protein, fold in cooked chicken or shrimp before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Garlic Orzo with
Keep these in mind:
- Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor.
- Stir the orzo frequently while cooking to prevent sticking.
- For a lighter option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Don’t overcook the orzo; it should be al dente.
- Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.
Best Ways to Serve Lemon Garlic Orzo with
This dish can be served in various delightful ways:
- As a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish.
- As a base for a hearty Lemon Garlic Orzo Salad by adding cherry tomatoes and cucumbers.
- Pair it with sautéed shrimp for a quick and satisfying meal.
How to Store and Reheat Lemon Garlic Orzo with
To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy texture. This dish is perfect for Lemon Garlic Orzo for Meal Prep, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Garlic Orzo with
What’s the secret to perfect Lemon Garlic Orzo with?
The key to perfect Lemon Garlic Orzo with is cooking the orzo until it’s al dente and incorporating fresh ingredients like lemon and garlic to enhance the dish’s flavor. Avoid overcooking the orzo to maintain its texture.
Can I make Lemon Garlic Orzo with ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Lemon Garlic Orzo with ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. It makes for a convenient meal prep option.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Lemon Garlic Orzo with?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure you measure your liquid accurately and stir the orzo frequently while it cooks. This prevents clumping and ensures an even texture.
Variations of Lemon Garlic Orzo with You Can Try
Feel free to explore these delicious variations:
- Replace chicken with sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Add roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a healthy Lemon Garlic Orzo with Vegetables.
- For a vegan option, skip the cheese and use nutritional yeast instead.
- Mix in feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair, creating a Lemon Garlic Orzo with Feta Cheese.
For more information on the health benefits of garlic, check out this Healthline article.
For additional meal prep ideas, visit this page for inspiration.
Explore more about the versatility of orzo in this recipe.
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Lemon Garlic Orzo with Parmesan: 20-Minute Delight
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Garlic Orzo with Parmesan is a silky, flavorful dish that works as a zesty side or a light main course.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 1 cup spinach or peas
- Optional protein: shredded rotisserie chicken or sautéed shrimp
Instructions
- In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add orzo and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed (about 8–10 minutes).
- Stir in butter, minced garlic, and lemon zest. Cook for 1–2 more minutes until fragrant.
- Mix in parmesan cheese and stir until creamy. Add spinach or peas if using, and cook until just wilted or heated through.
- For extra protein, fold in cooked chicken or shrimp before serving.
Notes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side dish or main course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Lemon Garlic Orzo, Parmesan, Quick Recipe
