One Pot Lemon Orzo Pasta

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One Pot Lemon Orzo Pasta is a flavorful dish that brings the bright taste of lemon together with tender orzo pasta. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The one-pot method makes clean-up a breeze, so you can spend more time enjoying the meal.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it’s quick to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, it uses simple ingredients that are often already in your pantry. Lastly, the combination of lemon, cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a delicious flavor that everyone will love. It’s a comforting meal that feels fancy without a lot of effort.

How to Make One Pot Lemon Orzo Pasta

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon salted butter
• 1½ cups uncooked orzo pasta (about 278 grams)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 2½ cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
• ⅓ cup cream (any kind — heavy cream will give richer flavor, light cream will be a bit thinner)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
• Juice of 1 lemon

Directions:

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the orzo and garlic and toast for 1-2 minutes.
2. Stir in the broth, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium-low, cover, and simmer, stirring often. Cook until most of the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is cooked to your preference (about 10 minutes). If you want to cook the pasta further but the liquid is gone, just add a splash more broth.
4. Stir in cream, Parmesan, and parsley. Add lemon juice gradually, tasting as you go, until the flavor is to your preference. Serve.

How to Serve One Pot Lemon Orzo Pasta

Serve this dish warm, garnished with extra parsley or Parmesan if desired. It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Store One Pot Lemon Orzo Pasta

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to bring back the creamy texture.

Tips to Make One Pot Lemon Orzo Pasta

• Make sure to stir the orzo often while it simmers to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
• Adjust the lemon juice to your liking; start with less and add more if you want a stronger flavor.
• For an extra kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes during cooking.

Variation

You can add cooked chicken or shrimp for more protein. Additionally, vegetables like spinach or peas can be stirred in for a boost of nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute another small pasta, but cooking times may vary. Adjust the liquid as needed.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, this recipe is not gluten-free due to the orzo. You can use gluten-free pasta if desired.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it later. The texture may change a bit, but it will still taste good.