Easy Lemon Orzo Recipe:

If you’re searching for a simple, delicious, and quick side dish or meal base, this Zesty Lemon Orzo Recipe is the perfect pick! Combining six staple ingredients, this dish is a blend of tangy lemon, creamy Parmesan, aromatic garlic, velvety olive oil, tender orzo pasta, and hearty broth. It’s a versatile recipe that caters to various dietary preferences and pairs wonderfully with chicken, salmon, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables.

Not only is it quick and easy (ready in under 20 minutes), but it also bursts with refreshing, rich flavors in every bite. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a meal-prep option, this recipe will be a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Lemon Orzo

• Orzo Pasta: Tiny rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs the flavorful broth perfectly.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and enhances the Mediterranean flavor.
• Garlic: Infuses the dish with a savory, aromatic base.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: The liquid base that brings depth and keeps the dish moist.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon zest and juice add a bright and tangy flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: For a creamy, savory finish.
• Optional Herbs: Parsley, basil, or thyme for garnish and additional flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: It’s ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
2. Healthy and Light: Made with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
3. Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or paired with your favorite protein for a complete meal.
4. Customizable: Switch up ingredients to suit dietary needs or preferences.

Guide to Make Lemon Orzo

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather all the ingredients and measure them. Chop fresh parsley or any herbs you’re using for garnish, and zest and juice the lemon.

2. Sauté the Garlic

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 20–30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic as it may turn bitter.

3. Cook the Orzo

Pour the chicken broth into the saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir in the dry orzo, ¾ teaspoon of lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the orzo simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

4. Add Final Ingredients

Once the orzo is tender, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and the rest of the lemon zest. Add black pepper to taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Garnish and Serve

For a pop of color and freshness, sprinkle the cooked lemon orzo with freshly chopped parsley. Serve it warm as a side dish or base for your favorite protein.

Tips for the Best Lemon Orzo

1. Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh lemons and high-quality Parmesan for the best flavor.
2. Monitor Cooking: Stir the orzo occasionally and add extra broth if it becomes too dry.
3. Experiment with Add-Ins: Try adding sautéed spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or toasted pine nuts for added flavor and texture.
4. Make It Creamier: For a creamier texture, mix in a tablespoon of butter or heavy cream before serving.

Ingredient Variations

• Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian.
• Use whole-wheat or gluten-free orzo for dietary needs.
• Replace Parmesan with Romano cheese or a plant-based cheese for a vegan option.

Recipe for Lemon Orzo:

Enjoy a hassle-free recipe featuring tender orzo pasta infused with zesty lemon, savory broth, aromatic garlic, smooth olive oil, and rich Parmesan cheese. The best part? This delicious dish is ready to serve in just 20 minutes!

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 2 tsp fresh minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
• 2 ⅔ cups low-sodium chicken broth (more as needed)
• Salt (to taste)
• 1 ½ tsp fresh lemon zest (divided)
• 8 oz (1 ⅓ cups) dry orzo pasta
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 20 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir in orzo, ¾ teaspoon lemon zest, and salt to taste. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Once orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, remove from heat. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and the rest of the lemon zest. Season with black pepper.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories 310Calories from Fat 81
  % Daily Value*
  Fat 9g14%
  Saturated Fat 2g13%
  Polyunsaturated Fat 1g
  Monounsaturated Fat 6g
  Cholesterol 3mg1%
  Sodium 411mg18%
  Potassium 313mg9%
  Carbohydrates 45g15%
  Fiber 2g8%
  Sugar 2g2%
  Protein 11g22%
  Vitamin A 353IU7%
  Vitamin C 11mg13%
  Calcium 89mg9%
  Iron 1mg6%