Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Peas
In short: Orzo toasted in butter and simmered in stock until creamy, then finished with garlic, Parmesan, lemon and sweet peas. One pan, 25 minutes. It takes about 25 min in total and makes 4 servings.
- Prep
- 5 min
- Cook
- 20 min
- Total
- 25 min
- Servings
- 4
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 345 kcal
Orzo cooked in stock like a risotto comes out creamy without any cream, and a handful of Parmesan, garlic and lemon makes it a side that vanishes from the plate. The pasta is toasted in butter first for a nutty flavor, then simmered with just enough stock to be absorbed. Frozen peas go in at the end for sweetness and color. It takes 25 minutes in one pan and goes with chicken, fish, sausages and almost any roast.
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large, deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the orzo and stir for 2 to 3 minutes, until some grains turn light golden and smell toasty.
- Pour in the hot stock, add the salt and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to a steady simmer and cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring often, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for 2 minutes until hot.
- Take the pan off the heat and stir in the Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice and parsley until creamy. Loosen with a splash of hot water or stock if it is too thick.
- Taste, add pepper and more salt if needed, and serve straight away.
Tips
- Orzo keeps absorbing liquid and thickens as it sits, so serve it right away and keep a little hot stock on hand to loosen leftovers.
- Stir in baby spinach or chopped herbs at the end, or use pecorino instead of Parmesan. For a dairy-free version, use olive oil and a spoonful of nutritional yeast.
Questions and answers
Can I make garlic Parmesan orzo ahead of time?
It is best fresh, but it keeps for 3 days in the fridge. Reheat it with a splash of water or stock to bring back the creamy texture.
Can I cook orzo like regular pasta?
Yes. Boil it in salted water for 8 to 10 minutes and drain, then toss with butter, garlic and Parmesan. The stock method is creamier and more flavorful.
What goes well with this orzo?
Roast chicken, seared salmon, sausages, meatballs and grilled vegetables all pair well with it.
How long does it take to make Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Peas?
About 25 min in total: 5 min of preparation and 20 min of cooking.
How many calories are in Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Peas?
About 345 kcal per serving, with 13 g of protein, 50 g of carbohydrates and 10 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 345 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 13 g |
| Carbohydrates | 50 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 840 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
