Creamy Saffron Orzo
Experience the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with this Creamy Saffron Orzo dish. A sophisticated yet simple alternative to traditional risotto, this dish features tender orzo pasta enveloped in a luscious sauce infused with aromatic saffron. The combination of buttery, nutty Grana Padano cheese and a splash of white wine elevates this meal to a culinary delight, making it the perfect side dish or a standout main course. Whether served alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or enjoyed on its own, this creamy orzo promises to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Watch the preparation in our detailed video tutorial!
4
Servings
300
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
dry white wine
1/2 cup (None)
saffron threads
1/2 teaspoon (Steep in wine)
low sodium chicken broth
6 cups (Warm)
olive oil
2 tablespoons (None)
butter
2 tablespoons (None)
orzo pasta
1 1/2 cups (None)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (To taste)
sea salt
1/4 teaspoon (To taste)
Grana Padano cheese
1 cup (Grated)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, combine the dry white wine and saffron threads. Allow it to steep for 10 minutes to release the saffron's flavor and color.
2
While the saffron is soaking, warm 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth in a medium pot over medium-low heat. It's essential to keep this broth warm throughout the cooking process.
3
In a separate medium saucepan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and bubbly.
4
Add the orzo pasta to the saucepan, stirring to coat the pasta in the oil and butter mixture. Cook the orzo for about 2-3 minutes, or until it starts to soften slightly.
5
Pour the saffron and wine mixture into the saucepan with the orzo, stirring continuously until most of the liquid is absorbed.
6
Gradually ladle in 1/2 cup of the warmed chicken broth at a time, stirring frequently and allowing each addition to be fully absorbed before adding the next. This technique will help achieve the creamy texture you desire.
7
Once all the broth has been absorbed, season the orzo with black pepper and sea salt to taste.
8
Finally, stir in the grated Grana Padano cheese until it's melted and well combined. Serve immediately while hot for a delightful experience.
Nutrition Information
15
Fat
30
Carbs
11.25
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Saffron Orzo?
Creamy Saffron Orzo is a sophisticated yet simple Italian-inspired dish featuring tender orzo pasta in a luscious saffron-infused sauce, similar to a traditional risotto.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
What are the main ingredients for Creamy Saffron Orzo?
The main ingredients include dry white wine, saffron threads, low-sodium chicken broth, olive oil, butter, orzo pasta, and Grana Padano cheese.
How should I prepare the saffron for this recipe?
Combine 1/2 teaspoon of saffron threads with 1/2 cup of dry white wine and let it steep for 10 minutes to release its flavor and color.
Why do I need to warm the chicken broth?
Warming the broth before adding it to the orzo helps maintain a consistent cooking temperature and ensures the pasta achieves the desired creamy texture.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of grated Grana Padano cheese, which adds a buttery and nutty flavor.
How many calories are in one serving of this orzo?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian by substituting the chicken broth with a low-sodium vegetable broth.
How much fat is in a serving of Creamy Saffron Orzo?
There are 15 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein does this dish provide?
One serving of this dish provides 11.25 grams of protein.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
There are 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What kind of wine should I use?
A dry white wine is recommended for steeping the saffron and adding acidity to the dish.
How do I cook the orzo to get a creamy texture?
Gradually ladle in the warmed broth 1/2 cup at a time, stirring frequently and allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding more.
How long should I cook the orzo initially?
Cook the orzo in the butter and oil mixture for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften slightly before adding any liquid.
What can I serve with Creamy Saffron Orzo?
It works perfectly as a side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables, or it can be served as a standalone main course.
Does this recipe include salt and pepper?
Yes, it uses 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt, though you should adjust to taste.
How much orzo pasta is required?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of dry orzo pasta.
What is the role of butter and olive oil in this dish?
They are used to sauté the orzo, providing a rich base and helping to toast the pasta slightly before the liquids are added.
What cuisine category does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is categorized as Italian and European cuisine.
Is there a video tutorial available?
Yes, a detailed video tutorial is available to guide you through the preparation process.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The finished dish has a creamy, luscious texture similar to risotto but made with orzo pasta.
Should I add all the broth at once?
No, you should add the broth gradually, 1/2 cup at a time, to ensure the orzo releases its starch and becomes creamy.
How much saffron is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of saffron threads.
When do I add the cheese?
The grated Grana Padano cheese should be stirred in at the very end, once all the broth has been absorbed.
Can I use regular salt?
The recipe specifies sea salt, but you can use regular table salt, adjusting the amount to your preference.
How much chicken broth do I need?
You will need 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth.
What are some tags associated with this recipe?
Tags include italian, saffron, orzo, pasta dish, comfort food, and creamy.
Is this a quick meal?
While it requires frequent stirring like risotto, the use of orzo and pre-steeping the saffron makes it a relatively sophisticated yet manageable meal.
Should the orzo be served hot?
Yes, for the best experience and texture, it should be served immediately while hot.
Can I substitute the Grana Padano?
While Grana Padano is recommended for its buttery flavor, you could substitute it with Parmesan if necessary.