Lemon Garlic Orzo Pasta: Easy, Fresh & Flavorful Meal
This Lemon Garlic Orzo Pasta is a delightful blend of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs, creating a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for any occasion, it’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup Orzo Pasta
- 2–3 tablespoons Fresh Lemons (juice)
- 1–2 teaspoons Fresh Lemons (zest)
- 3–4 cloves Fresh Garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 3 cups Vegetable Broth (or Chicken Broth)
- 1/2 cup Fresh Herbs (mixed parsley and dill, chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (optional, grated)
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Zest your lemon first, then juice it. Mince the garlic and chop the fresh herbs. Measure out the orzo and warm the broth.
- Sauté the Garlic: Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toast the Orzo: Add dry orzo pasta to the pot with garlic and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast.
- Cook the Orzo Risotto-Style: Pour in 1 cup of warm broth, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer. Continue adding broth gradually, stirring occasionally, until orzo is cooked through and al dente, about 10-15 minutes.
- Finish with Lemon and Butter: Remove the pot from heat and stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter until melted.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Cheese: Fold in chopped fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese if using.
- Season and Serve: Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs or cheese if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
Keywords: For the best flavor, always use fresh ingredients, especially lemon and herbs. Adjust creaminess by adding more broth or a splash of cream at the end. This dish can be enhanced with grilled chicken or vegetables for a heartier meal.