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Creamy Lemon Orzo Recipe

Creamy Lemon Orzo Recipe
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This Creamy Lemon Orzo recipe offers a perfect blend of bright citrus freshness and rich creaminess in one comforting bowl. Tender orzo pasta is coated in a zesty lemon cream sauce enhanced with garlic, parmesan, and fresh herbs, making it a quick and satisfying meal or side dish ideal for any season.

Ingredients

Scale

Orzo and Broth

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Seasonings and Garnishes

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo: Bring chicken or vegetable broth to a boil in a saucepan. Add the orzo and cook until tender but still slightly firm to the bite, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the orzo, reserving some broth for later use, and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Lemon Cream Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream (or Greek yogurt) and grated Parmesan cheese, melting them together while stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce.
  3. Combine and Flavor: Add the cooked orzo to the lemon cream sauce. Mix in fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved broth to loosen it to your preferred consistency. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Remove the skillet from heat. Fold in the chopped fresh parsley or dill to brighten the flavor and add vibrant color. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemons for the best bright and aromatic flavor.
  • Reserve some cooking broth to adjust the sauce consistency and keep it silky.
  • Do not overcook the orzo; it should remain slightly al dente to maintain texture when combined with the sauce.
  • Grate Parmesan cheese finely to ensure smooth melting and a creamier sauce.
  • Taste and adjust lemon juice and seasoning at the end to balance flavors perfectly.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon orzo, creamy lemon pasta, quick dinner, easy side dish, Mediterranean pasta, gluten-free pasta recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/creamy-lemon-orzo-recipe/