Corn and Pepper Orzo

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor, Corn and Pepper Orzo is the perfect blend of vibrant vegetables and tender pasta. This quick and easy recipe combines al dente orzo with sweet corn kernels, crisp red and yellow bell peppers, and aromatic garlic, all simmered in a light vegetable broth for a dish that's both comforting and refreshing. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a zesty kick, while optional parmesan cheese lends a creamy finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this versatile dish can be served as a colorful side or a satisfying light main course. Don't forget the sprinkle of fresh parsley for an herby garnish that ties it all together! Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this orzo recipe is sure to impress every time.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 min
• Cook Time: 20 min
• Total Time: 30 min
• Servings: 4 servings
• Difficulty: Medium

🥘 Ingredients

13 items

• 1.5 cups orzo pasta
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium yellow bell pepper, diced
• 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 0.25 cup parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

📝 Instructions

8 steps

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and cook the orzo according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add the diced red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and corn kernels to the skillet. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.

4. Stir in the cooked orzo and vegetable broth. Mix well and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing the orzo to absorb the flavors.

5. Add the sliced green onions, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 1–2 minutes.

6. Optional: Stir in grated parmesan cheese for a creamy finish.

7. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

8. Serve warm as a side dish or a light main course. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

1 serving (325.8g)

Calories		474
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		12.4 g	16%
	Saturated Fat	3.3 g	16%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0.3 g
Cholesterol		7 mg	2%
Sodium		675 mg	29%
Total Carbohydrate		78.2 g	28%
	Dietary Fiber	6.8 g	24%
	Total Sugars	9.8 g
Protein		17.3 g	35%
Vitamin D		0.1 mcg	0%
Calcium		152 mg	12%
Iron		2.9 mg	16%
Potassium		618 mg	13%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 449 cal (22.7%%)

Protein: 277 cal (14.0%%)

Carbs: 1250 cal (63.2%%)