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One Pot Creamy Zucchini Orzo recipe

Creamy One Pot Zucchini Orzo

Chef Enzo, an Italian-American cuisine expert from Eat Every Slice, smiling while enjoying a plate of homemade pasta garnished with fresh basil.Enzo R.
A comforting and easy one pot meal featuring creamy orzo pasta with fresh zucchini and parmesan.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot for cooking the orzo and sauce
  • 1 chef's knife for slicing zucchini
  • 1 Wooden spoon for stirring

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 medium zucchinis sliced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Wash and slice the zucchinis into thin rounds. Mince the garlic cloves and set aside.
  • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Add orzo to the pot and stir frequently for 2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta.
  • Pour in the vegetable broth and add the zucchini slices. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  • Allow the orzo to cook through, stirring occasionally, until most of the broth is absorbed and the orzo is tender, about 10 minutes.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Continue to cook until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.

Serving

  • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.

Storage

  • Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a little water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Notes

Pro Tips: Stir orzo frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and creaminess.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute orzo with couscous or small pasta shells. Replace cream with coconut milk for a vegan version.
How to Serve: Pair with a green salad or garlic bread. Garnish with extra parmesan and lemon zest for added flavor.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare all ingredients ahead of time and store in separate containers for quick assembly during busy weeknights.
Keyword Creamy pasta, One Pot Meal, zucchini orzo