Description
This Lemon Orzo with Parmesan & Peas is a creamy, bright, and comforting dish featuring tender orzo cooked in a flavorful broth, finished with fresh lemon zest and juice, sweet peas, and rich Parmesan cheese. It’s a versatile recipe that works well as an easy side dish or a light vegetarian meal, perfect for an Italian or Mediterranean-inspired menu.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1½ cups dry orzo
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ small yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat fats: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat to create a flavorful base.
- Sauté onions: Add the finely diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, releasing its aroma.
- Toast orzo: Stir in the dry orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes, coating it with the fats and enhancing its nutty flavor.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the broth along with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook orzo: Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to release the starch, ensuring a creamy texture.
- Add peas: Stir in the frozen peas during the final 2–3 minutes of cooking to allow them to thaw and blend with the pasta.
- Finish with cheese and lemon: Remove the pan from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice to add creaminess and a bright citrus flavor.
- Adjust consistency: If the orzo is too thick, add a splash of warm broth until it reaches your desired creamy consistency.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley and optional fresh basil on top, then serve the dish warm.
Notes
- Stir frequently while the orzo cooks, as it releases starch and can stick easily to the pan.
- Add lemon gradually and adjust according to taste to achieve a brighter or milder lemon flavor.
- Fresh peas can be substituted for frozen peas for a fresher flavor.
- To make this dish heartier, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans.
- For extra creaminess, stir in 2 tablespoons of cream or Greek yogurt at the end of cooking.
- Use vegetable broth and ensure Parmesan cheese is suitable for vegetarians if keeping the dish vegetarian.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish, Pasta, Vegetarian
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
