Delicious Lemon Orzo Recipe: A Quick and Creamy One-Pot Meal
This lemon orzo pasta is lightly creamy and bursting with bright lemon flavor. Easy to make in one pot in 20 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Orzo Recipe
This lemon orzo recipe is an easy, delicious one-pot dinner or side dish. It’s been one of my go-to weeknight meals this spring. With just 10 ingredients and ready in 20 minutes, it’s a hit with the whole family, kids included!
- Bright and fresh flavor without any cream.
- Comforting texture from orzo and Parmesan.
- Versatile; perfect as a main course or side dish.
Ingredients for Lemon Orzo
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy lemon orzo recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Orzo | 1 cup |
| Unsalted butter or olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Vegetable broth | 3 cups |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Peas | 1 cup, frozen |
| Lemon juice and zest | 1 lemon |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup, grated |
| Fresh herbs | For garnish |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Find the complete recipe with measurements below.
How to Make Lemon Orzo
This lemon orzo recipe is incredibly easy to make in just one pot! Here’s how:
- Toast the orzo: Heat butter or olive oil in a medium Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the orzo and cook for about 2 minutes until it smells nutty.
- Simmer: Add broth, garlic, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Stir in frozen peas until heated through.
- Mix in final ingredients: Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and zest, Parmesan cheese, and half the herbs. Season to taste and serve topped with remaining herbs and cheese.
Tip: If the orzo becomes too dry, gradually add more broth to maintain a creamy texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Recipe Variations
- Add a protein: Stir in 1 cup of cooked chickpeas or white beans.
- Add a vegetable: Incorporate sautéed asparagus or broccoli. Add fresh spinach when peas are included.
- Change the cheese: Use pecorino or feta instead of Parmesan.
- Sauce it up: Garnish with a dollop of pesto.
Serving Suggestions
Your family will love this lemon orzo pasta as a main dish on busy weeknights. Pair it with:
- Sautéed greens or a green salad.
- Roasted asparagus or sautéed broccolini.
This lemon orzo also makes a great side dish to accompany roasted meats or cooked proteins!
How to Store Lemon Orzo
- Refrigerator: Cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use a microwave.
- To reheat: Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to achieve the desired creamy consistency.
More Orzo Recipes to Try
If you love this lemon orzo pasta, explore these additional orzo recipes: