Creamy Lemon Parmesan Orzo Pasta

Zesty Creamy Lemon Parmesan Orzo is a delightful dish that perfectly balances rich creaminess with a refreshing burst of citrus flavor. This pasta dish has gained popularity for its ability to captivate the palate with its smooth, velvety texture and vibrant taste. The combination of creamy elements and zesty lemon creates an inviting dish that is both comforting and invigorating, making it a favorite for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even as a side dish for elegant occasions.

Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Creamy Lemon Parmesan Orzo, a delightful dish that perfectly marries rich creaminess with a refreshing citrus burst. This versatile orzo pasta can be enjoyed as a main course or a side, enhanced with ingredients like spinach or grilled chicken. The easy-to-follow recipe ensures every bite is packed with flavor, making it a favorite for family dinners or elegant gatherings. Perfect for any occasion, elevate your cooking with this irresistible dish!

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Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: 1 cup fresh spinach or peas for added color and nutrition

Instructions

Cook the Orzo: In a medium pot, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the broth.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Creamy Base: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Gradually add the reserved broth, along with the lemon zest and juice. Stir until the mixture is well blended and starts to simmer.

Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Combine Orzo: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and mix well to ensure every piece is coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using spinach or peas, stir them in at this point until they wilt or heat through (if using spinach) or warm up (if using peas).

Serve: Once everything is heated through, remove from the heat. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4