Creamy Orange Zest Orzo Risotto
This delightful Creamy Orange Zest Orzo Risotto is a quick and easy dish that elevates the traditional Italian risotto by using orzo pasta for a unique twist. Infused with the bright flavors of fresh orange zest and aromatic thyme, this dish is creamy, comforting, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for special occasions. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's an impressive yet simple recipe that serves a crowd, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks. Experience the fusion of textures and flavors as you stir in the nutty parmigiano-reggiano and rich butter, creating a luscious dish that everyone will love.
N/A
Servings
170
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
orzo pasta
1 lb (dry)
chicken broth
2 cups (liquid)
orange zest
1 teaspoon (finely grated)
thyme
1/4 teaspoon (finely chopped)
parmigiano-reggiano cheese
2 ounces (finely grated)
unsalted butter
2 tablespoons (softened)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
pepper
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook until barely al dente, about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain the orzo in a colander and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process.
2
In a 2-quart heavy saucepan, combine the rinsed orzo, chicken broth, orange zest, and thyme. Place over moderate heat. Simmer while stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed, about 5 minutes.
3
Once the stock has been absorbed, stir in the finely grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese and unsalted butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to stir until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
4
Serve the orzo risotto immediately, garnished with extra cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information
8g
Fat
20g
Carbs
4g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Orange Zest Orzo Risotto?
It is a quick and easy dish that puts a unique twist on traditional Italian risotto by using orzo pasta infused with orange zest and thyme.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
This recipe is quick and can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
What is the primary carbohydrate used in this dish?
The primary carbohydrate is orzo pasta, with 20g of carbohydrates per serving.
How many calories are in a serving of this orzo risotto?
There are approximately 170 calories per serving.
What ingredients provide the main flavors?
The dish is flavored with fresh orange zest, aromatic thyme, and nutty parmigiano-reggiano cheese.
Is this recipe difficult to make?
No, it is described as a simple and easy recipe suitable for weeknight dinners.
How much fat is in this recipe?
Each serving contains approximately 8g of fat.
What type of broth is recommended?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of chicken broth.
How much protein does this dish contain?
This recipe contains 4g of protein per serving.
What kind of cheese should be used?
Finely grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
How do I cook the orzo initially?
Boil the orzo in salted water for 5 to 6 minutes until barely al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
Why do I rinse the orzo after boiling?
Rinsing the orzo under cold water halts the cooking process so it doesn't become overcooked.
What size saucepan is needed for the second stage of cooking?
A 2-quart heavy saucepan is recommended for simmering the orzo with the broth.
How long should the orzo simmer with the broth?
It should simmer while stirring constantly for about 5 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
When should I add the butter and cheese?
Stir in the butter and parmigiano-reggiano once the chicken broth has been fully absorbed.
Should I use salted or unsalted butter?
The recipe specifies using 2 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter.
What is the recommended amount of orange zest?
You should use 1 teaspoon of finely grated orange zest.
How much thyme is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of finely chopped thyme.
How much salt and pepper should be added?
The recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper, or to taste.
Can this be served as a main dish?
Yes, it is perfect as a weeknight dinner main or as a side dish for special occasions.
What is the best way to garnish this risotto?
It can be garnished with extra parmigiano-reggiano cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients in total, including salt and pepper.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Yes, it is ideal for family gatherings or potlucks as it is simple to prepare for many people.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The dish has a luscious, creamy, and comforting texture once the cheese and butter are incorporated.
How should the orzo be prepared before boiling?
The recipe uses 1 lb of dry orzo pasta.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While this recipe specifically uses orzo to mimic risotto, other small pasta shapes could be used, though the texture will vary.
Does this recipe contain fiber or sugar?
The nutritional data provided does not list specific amounts for fiber or sugar.
What cuisine does this recipe belong to?
It is a fusion of Italian cuisine, specifically a variation of the traditional risotto.
Should the orzo be served hot?
Yes, it should be served immediately after the cheese and butter are well combined.
What is the preparation method for the thyme?
The thyme should be finely chopped before being added to the saucepan.