Creamy Lemon Parmesan Orzo
A delightful blend of creamy orzo, tangy lemon, and savory parmesan cheese, perfect for an easy yet elegant dinner.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot for boiling orzo
- 1 Large skillet for sauce
- 1 mixing spoon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Stir in lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add cooked orzo to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. If using, add optional ingredients and cook until heated through.
Serving
- Transfer to serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Storage
- Allow leftovers to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor. Adjust lemon juice to taste. Add pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use pecorino in place of parmesan for a sharper flavor. Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
How to Serve: Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prep ingredients ahead of time for quick assembly.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use pecorino in place of parmesan for a sharper flavor. Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
How to Serve: Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prep ingredients ahead of time for quick assembly.