Creamy Parmesan Basil Orzo Delight
Indulge in this rich and creamy Parmesan Basil Orzo Delight, a perfect accompaniment to any protein or enjoyed on its own. This dish features tender orzo pasta enveloped in a buttery chicken broth and enhanced with the nutty flavor of grated Parmesan, complemented by the freshness of julienne-sliced basil. Quick to prepare, it transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet side that can elevate any weeknight dinner. Whether paired with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted vegetables, this orzo recipe will quickly become a favorite at your table, bringing a taste of Italian cuisine to your home.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
orzo pasta
1 1/2 cups (uncooked)
butter
3 tablespoons (melted)
chicken broth
3 cups (liquid)
parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
fresh basil
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons (julienne-sliced)
salt
to taste (seasoning)
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
fresh basil sprig
for garnish (as needed)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the uncooked orzo pasta and sauté, stirring constantly, until the orzo turns a light golden color, about 3-4 minutes.
2
Pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat to bring it to a boil. Once boiling, cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and all the broth is absorbed.
3
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and julienned basil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Allow it to sit for a couple of minutes to let the flavors meld before serving. Garnish with a sprig of fresh basil if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Parmesan Basil Orzo Delight?
Creamy Parmesan Basil Orzo Delight is a rich and creamy pasta dish featuring tender orzo enveloped in a buttery chicken broth with grated Parmesan and fresh basil.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
What are the main ingredients for this orzo dish?
The main ingredients include orzo pasta, butter, chicken broth, parmesan cheese, and fresh basil.
How much orzo pasta is needed?
You will need 1 1/2 cups of uncooked orzo pasta.
What kind of broth is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of chicken broth.
How much Parmesan cheese should I use?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
How should the basil be prepared?
The fresh basil should be julienne-sliced, meaning cut into thin, long strips.
How do I start the cooking process?
Start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sautéing the uncooked orzo.
How long should I sauté the orzo?
Sauté the orzo for about 3-4 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
What is the simmering time for the orzo?
The orzo should simmer for about 20 minutes once the broth is added.
Should the skillet be covered while simmering?
Yes, cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low after it reaches a boil.
How do I know when the orzo is finished cooking?
The orzo is done when it is tender and all the chicken broth has been absorbed.
When do I add the Parmesan cheese and basil?
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and julienned basil after removing the skillet from the heat.
What seasonings are recommended for this dish?
The recipe recommends seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Should the dish rest before serving?
Yes, allow the orzo to sit for a couple of minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.
What can I use for a garnish?
You can garnish the dish with a sprig of fresh basil.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it a vegetarian dish.
What is the total number of ingredients in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients in total.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is designed to be a quick side dish that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet accompaniment.
What protein pairs well with this orzo?
This dish pairs excellently with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted vegetables.
What is the texture of this orzo dish?
The texture is rich, creamy, and tender, similar to a risotto but made with pasta.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 3 tablespoons of melted butter.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
While fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried basil in smaller quantities if necessary.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized as an Italian side dish.
Does orzo contain gluten?
Yes, orzo is a wheat-based pasta and contains gluten.
How much fresh basil is needed in total?
You need 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons of julienne-sliced basil.
Is it necessary to sauté the orzo before boiling?
Yes, sautéing the orzo adds a nutty flavor and improves the final texture of the dish.
What type of heat is used for simmering?
Low heat is used to simmer the orzo once the broth has been brought to a boil.
Is there a specific way to cut the basil?
Yes, the recipe specifies julienne-sliced, which creates thin ribbons of basil.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
You can use margarine, but butter is preferred for the richness it adds to the creamy sauce.