Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
Indulge in this deliciously creamy garlic parmesan orzo, a delightful twist on classic side dishes. This recipe elevates your dining experience with the rich flavors of sautéed onion and garlic, perfectly complemented by the nutty butteriness of orzo pasta, all enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce. Whether served alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or simply on its own, this dish guarantees to please the palate and impress your guests. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this orzo recipe is not only easy to make but it also provides a comforting warmth that is sure to be a hit at your table.
4
Servings
130
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tablespoons (none)
Onion
1/2 small (chopped)
Garlic Cloves
2 (chopped)
Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth
2 (14 ounce) cans (none)
Orzo Pasta
2 cups (uncooked)
Grated Parmigiano or Romano Cheese
1/2 cup (freshly grated)
Salt
to taste (none)
Freshly Ground Black Pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by preheating an 8-inch pot or medium saucepan over moderate heat.
2
Once the pot is heated, add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
3
Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
4
Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
5
Pour in the 2 cans of chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6
Once boiling, carefully stir in the 2 cups of orzo pasta and bring it back to a boil.
7
Immediately cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to a simmer.
8
Allow the orzo to cook for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender.
9
After cooking, remove the lid and stir in 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmigiano or Romano cheese.
10
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing well.
11
Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy orzo as a comforting side dish!
Nutrition Information
4.5g
Fat
17.5g
Carbs
3.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo?
It is a delightful twist on classic side dishes featuring sautéed onion and garlic, nutty orzo pasta, and a velvety cheese sauce.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 130 calories.
What ingredients are needed for the base of the dish?
The base requires extra virgin olive oil, 1/2 a small chopped onion, and 2 chopped garlic cloves.
How much orzo is required for this recipe?
You will need 2 cups of uncooked orzo pasta.
What type of broth should I use?
You can use either chicken broth or vegetable broth, depending on your preference.
How much broth do I need to add?
The recipe calls for two 14-ounce cans of broth.
What kind of cheese is recommended?
Freshly grated Parmigiano or Romano cheese is recommended for the best flavor.
How much cheese should be stirred into the orzo?
You should use 1/2 cup of freshly grated cheese.
What size pot is best for cooking this orzo?
An 8-inch pot or a medium saucepan is ideal.
How long should I sauté the onion?
Sauté the chopped onion for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes softened and translucent.
How long does the garlic need to cook?
Cook the garlic for 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring it does not brown.
Do I need to boil the broth before adding the pasta?
Yes, bring the broth mixture to a boil before carefully stirring in the orzo.
Should the pot be covered while the orzo cooks?
Yes, immediately cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid once the orzo is added and the mixture returns to a boil.
What is the total cooking time for the orzo?
The orzo should simmer for approximately 15 minutes.
How do I know when the orzo is finished cooking?
The orzo is done when the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is tender.
What are the nutritional facts for fat and carbohydrates?
One serving contains 4.5g of fat and 17.5g of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in this dish?
There are 3.5g of protein per serving.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian.
What should I serve with this creamy orzo?
It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or can be enjoyed on its own.
Is it necessary to stir the orzo while it simmers?
Yes, it is recommended to stir occasionally while it simmers to ensure even cooking.
When should I add the salt and pepper?
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste after the orzo is cooked and the cheese has been stirred in.
Is this recipe considered a comfort food?
Yes, the recipe description notes that it provides a comforting warmth that is a hit at the table.
What heat setting should I use for simmering?
Once the lid is on, reduce the heat to a simmer (low heat).
What is the preparation for the onion?
The onion should be finely chopped before starting.
Is this recipe suitable for weeknight dinners?
Yes, it is easy to make and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.
How much olive oil is used?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
Can I use Romano cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, the recipe specifically allows for either Parmigiano or Romano cheese.
How should the dish be served?
It should be served warm to enjoy the creamy and cheesy texture.
Does the recipe contain fiber or sugar?
The nutritional data provided lists fiber and sugar as null.