Creamy Lemon Orzo Perfection
This Creamy Lemon Orzo Perfection is a bright and flavorful weeknight dinner that's incredibly easy to make. Bursting with zesty lemon and a luscious creamy sauce, this dish is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Enjoy perfectly cooked orzo in a decadent parmesan cream sauce.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester
- juicer
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Grater
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 pound orzo pasta about 2 cups
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 large lemon, zest and juice
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Add the orzo pasta to the pot and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This step adds a nutty flavor to the orzo.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don't be afraid to taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
- If using any optional add-ins (cooked chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or asparagus), stir them in. Cook until heated through, if necessary.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Other optional add-ins include grilled shrimp, peas, bell peppers, or zucchini. To prevent the sauce from curdling, do not overheat it after adding the cream and Parmesan cheese; simmer over low heat and stir constantly.