Lemon Herb Orzo is a light and refreshing dish that combines tender orzo pasta with vibrant lemon juice, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlic. This versatile side dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or can be enjoyed on its own as a delightful vegetarian option.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Timing
Making Lemon Herb Orzo takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
- Boil Broth: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth (or water) to a boil.
- Add Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Drain: Once cooked, drain any excess liquid if necessary and return the orzo to the saucepan.
Step 2: Prepare the Herb Mixture
- Sauté Garlic: In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the sautéed garlic over the cooked orzo. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, chopped basil, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Season and Serve
- Season: Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Serve: Transfer the Lemon Herb Orzo to a serving dish and enjoy warm as a side or main dish.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Lemon Herb Orzo (per serving, based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 1g |
Tips for Customization
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier dish.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs such as dill or cilantro for different flavor profiles.
Conclusion
Lemon Herb Orzo is a quick and easy dish that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. With its bright lemony taste and fresh herbs, it’s a perfect accompaniment to various proteins or a standalone vegetarian option. Enjoy this delightful recipe!
Lemon Herb Orzo Recipe
Ingredients
- • 1 cup orzo pasta
- • 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- • 2 tablespoons olive oil
- • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- • 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- • Juice of 1 lemon
- • Zest of 1 lemon
- • Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth (or water) to a boil.
2. Stir in the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid if necessary and return the orzo to the saucepan.
4. In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
5. Pour the sautéed garlic over the cooked orzo. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, chopped basil, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Stir well to combine.
6. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
7. Transfer the Lemon Herb Orzo to a serving dish and enjoy warm as a side or main dish.
