Parmesan Orzo

Why Make This Recipe

Parmesan Orzo is a delightful dish that combines the creamy richness of Parmesan cheese with tender orzo pasta. It’s quick to prepare and makes for a comforting side dish or an easy main course. If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful recipe that brings a taste of elegance to your table, this is the one for you!

How to Make Parmesan Orzo

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup orzo
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the orzo and cook, stirring often, until lightly toasted.
3. Add the chicken broth to the pan and cover.
4. Cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid has absorbed.
5. Stir in the Parmesan, basil, and salt and pepper.
6. Continue stirring until the Parmesan has melted.
7. Serve hot.

How to Serve Parmesan Orzo

Parmesan Orzo can be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish. It also works great as a base for sautéed vegetables or can be enjoyed on its own. For an extra touch, sprinkle some more grated Parmesan on top before serving and add a drizzle of olive oil.

How to Store Parmesan Orzo

If you have leftovers, store the Parmesan Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist and warm it on the stove or microwave.

Tips to Make Parmesan Orzo

• For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic when toasting the orzo.
• You can mix in other herbs like parsley or thyme for a different taste.
• For a creamier texture, try adding a splash of cream just before serving.

Variation

For a heartier dish, you can mix in cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas. You can also substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make it vegetarian.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, while orzo is great in this recipe, you can use other small pasta shapes if desired.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze Parmesan Orzo?
It’s best when fresh, but you can freeze it. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When reheating, it may need additional liquid to restore its creamy texture.

Parmesan Orzo

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• Author: jena
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful dish combining the creamy richness of Parmesan cheese with tender orzo pasta, perfect as a side or an easy main course.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup orzo
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the orzo and cook, stirring often, until lightly toasted.
3. Add the chicken broth to the pan and cover.
4. Cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid has absorbed.
5. Stir in the Parmesan, basil, and salt and pepper.
6. Continue stirring until the Parmesan has melted.
7. Serve hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic when toasting the orzo. You can mix in other herbs like parsley or thyme for a different taste. For a creamier texture, add a splash of cream just before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Parmesan, orzo, pasta, side dish, Italian