Creamy Garlic Orzo Risotto
This Creamy Garlic Orzo Risotto is a delightful and quick meal that combines the comfort of risotto with the ease of orzo pasta. In just under 30 minutes, you'll create a dish that's rich in flavor and creamy in texture. The combination of Parmigiano and Asiago cheese adds a wonderful depth to the dish, while the minced garlic infuses it with a savory aroma. Perfect as a side dish or a main course, this risotto-style orzo is sure to impress family and friends alike. Serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal that’s ready in no time!
6
Servings
158
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
orzo pasta
1 lb (uncooked)
chicken broth
2 cups (preferably low-sodium)
garlic
1 tablespoon (finely minced)
Parmigiano cheese
1 ounce (finely shredded)
Asiago cheese
1 ounce (finely shredded)
unsalted butter
2 tablespoons (cut into pieces)
salt
to taste (for seasoning)
pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
2
Once cooked, drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
3
In a large saucepan, combine the cooked orzo, chicken broth, and minced garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
4
Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken broth is absorbed and the orzo is creamy and tender.
5
Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the finely shredded Parmigiano and Asiago cheeses along with the pieces of unsalted butter. Mix until the cheeses melt and the risotto is creamy.
6
Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust ingredients based on personal preference.
7
Serve the Creamy Garlic Orzo Risotto immediately, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information
5g
Fat
23g
Carbs
5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Garlic Orzo Risotto?
It is a delightful and quick meal that combines the comfort of risotto with the ease of orzo pasta, resulting in a rich and creamy dish.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
This recipe is a quick meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients are orzo pasta, chicken broth, minced garlic, Parmigiano cheese, Asiago cheese, and unsalted butter.
What type of pasta is used in this risotto-style dish?
This dish uses orzo pasta, which is small and rice-shaped.
How many calories are in a serving of Creamy Garlic Orzo Risotto?
Each serving contains approximately 158 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 5g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 23g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in one serving?
Each serving provides 5g of protein.
What kind of broth is recommended?
The recipe suggests 2 cups of chicken broth, preferably low-sodium.
How much garlic is needed for this recipe?
You will need 1 tablespoon of finely minced garlic.
Which cheeses are used in the Creamy Garlic Orzo Risotto?
The recipe calls for 1 ounce of finely shredded Parmigiano and 1 ounce of finely shredded Asiago cheese.
How do I cook the orzo pasta?
Cook the orzo in salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
Why should I rinse the orzo after boiling?
Rinsing the orzo under cold water stops the cooking process and prevents it from becoming overcooked.
How long should the orzo simmer with the chicken broth?
The mixture should simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the broth is absorbed.
When should the butter and cheese be added?
Add the cheeses and butter after the chicken broth has been absorbed and the heat has been reduced to low.
Can I use salted butter?
The recipe specifies unsalted butter cut into pieces, which allows you to control the final seasoning.
How should I garnish the final dish?
You can garnish the risotto with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Is this dish served as a side or a main course?
It is versatile and can be served as either a side dish or a main course.
What should the texture of the orzo be?
The final texture should be creamy and tender, similar to a traditional rice risotto.
What temperature should I use for simmering?
The orzo and broth should be brought to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
How much butter is required?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
Do I need to season the dish?
Yes, you should season generously with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Should I serve this dish immediately?
Yes, it is best served immediately for a warm and comforting meal.
What are some tags associated with this recipe?
Tags include orzo, risotto, comfort food, easy recipes, 30 minutes meals, and pasta dishes.
How much orzo is needed?
The recipe requires 1 lb of uncooked orzo pasta.
What is the preparation for the garlic?
The garlic should be finely minced before being added to the saucepan.
What category does this recipe fall into?
It is categorized as a meal that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.
What preparation is needed for the cheeses?
Both the Parmigiano and Asiago cheeses should be finely shredded.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, because it is ready in under 30 minutes and uses simple ingredients, it is ideal for busy schedules.